On Tuesday, it was revealed that Jack Black's Tenacious D bandmate Kyle Gass had been dropped by his talent agent following comments he made at a show in Sydney, Australia on Sunday about Donald Trump. Michael Greene of Greene Talent said he had "parted ways" with the comedy rocker due to what was said that night.
The lead guitarist and birthday boy was asked by bandmate Black to make a "wish," at which point Gass told the audience "Don't miss Trump next time." This just hours after a gunman attempted to assassinate Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. "Thank you," Black said amid laughter. After being widely criticised, both he and Black released statements expressing their remorse, with the latter announcing the cancellation of the rest of their tour.
"We have parted ways after what happened in Sydney," Greene said in a statement to Rolling Stone.
Hours before the news broke of the tour's cancelation, Gass posted an apology on Instagram.
"The line I improvised onstage Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous, and a terrible mistake," he wrote. "I don't condone violence of any kind, in any form, against anyone. What happened was a tragedy, and I'm incredibly sorry for my severe lack of judgement. I profoundly apologize to those I've let down and truly regret any pain I've caused."
In his apology, Black said he had been "blindsided" by Gass' comments. "I would never condone hate speech or encourage political violence in any form," he added. "After much reflection, I no longer feel it is appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour, and all future creative plans are on hold. I am grateful to the fans for their support and understanding."
During the show, Black sang Happy Birthday, then asked Gass to make a wish, at which point he paused, then uttered, "Don't miss Trump next time." Many in the audience cheered, though some appeared to be taken aback.
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