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16th July 2024
04:10pm BST
Jack Black has put his band Tenacious D 'on hold' as well as cancelling their tour following controversial comments about Donald Trump made by his bandmate.
The comedic musical duo made up of Black and Kyle Gass are famous for songs like 'Tribute' and 'Kickapoo' and have been touring the world, including visiting Ireland in May.
Gass found himself the centre of controversy following comments he made the day after Trump was shot by a gunman at a rally in Pennsylvania.
During a show at the ICC Theatre in Sydney, Australia, on July 14, the band celebrated Gass’ 64th birthday.
In footage captured by those in attendance, Gass is presented a cake by his bandmate Black, who asks him to make a wish as he blows at the candles.
Gass then responds: “Don’t miss Trump next time,” prompting laughter from the audience.
In a statement following the backlash received by the band, Black said in a statement: "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.
"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."
Tenacious D were due to play four more dates across Australia before travelling to New Zealand.
Australian senator, Ralph Babet, called for the band to be removed from the country, saying: “I call on the prime minister Anthony Albanese to join me in denouncing Tenacious D, Jack Black and band member Kyle Gass, and I call on the immigration minister Andrew Giles to revoke their visas and deport them immediately.
"Anything less than a deportation is an endorsement of the shooting and the attempted assassination of Donald J Trump."
Gass also apologised for his comment on Instagram, saying it was a "severe lack of judgement".
He wrote: "The line I improvised onstage Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake.
"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 apologise to those I’ve let down and truly regret any pain I’ve caused."
The band have been together for 30 years and have released a movie, Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny, paired with the release of their second album in 2006.
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