The comedy rock duo Tenacious D has cancelled the rest of their tour after band member Kyle Gass’ remarks on the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.
While on stage at a concert in Sydney, Australia, on Sunday, band member Jack Black — also known for starring in such films as “High Fidelity” and “School of Rock” — presented bandmate Kyle Gass with a birthday cake and asked him to “make a wish.”
Gass responded, “Don’t miss Trump next time.” The comment, an apparent reference to the assassination attempt against the former president the day before, was widely circulated on social media. The shooting left Trump with an injured ear.
On Tuesday, Black shared a statement on Instagram, stating that he “no longer” felt it appropriate to continue the tour, and that “all future creative plans are on hold.”
“I was blindsided by what was said at the show on Sunday. I would never condone hate speech or encourage political violence in any form,” Black said in a Tuesday statement on Instagram. “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.”
Following Black’s statement, Gass apologized on Instagram.
“The line I improvised Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake,” he wrote Tuesday. “I don’t condone violence in any kind, in any form, against anyone. What happened was a tragedy, and I’m incredibly sorry for my severe lack of judgement.”
Black’s remarks appeared the throw the band’s future in question. The singer, actor and comedian has been a supporter of President Biden. Meanwhile, the New York Times reported, Gass’ talent agent, Michael Greene, announced he had parted ways with the singer and musician.
The band recently completed dates in the U.S. and Europe. Their “Spicy Meatball Tour” was slated to continue Tuesday night in Newcastle, hitting most major cities in Australia and New Zealand this month before returning to the U.S. for a select few dates in October.
When asked for further comment, a representative for the band directed the Associated Press back to Black’s statement. Details on refunds for the remaining tour dates were not immediately available.
