Kyle Gass Apologizes for Trump Assassination Remark That Led to Tenacious D Tour Cancellation: ‘Highly Inappropriate, Dangerous and a Terrible Mistake’

variety.com:

Zack Sharf Digital News Director Tenacious D band member Kyle Gass has issued an apology on social media amid blowback following his controversial remark on the assassination attempt against Donald Trump.

Gass admitted the remark was “highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake.” Amid the controversy, Gass’ bandmate Jack Black announced Tenacious D was canceling its current tour and “all future creative plans.” During the band’s July 14 show in Australia, Black surprised Gass by bringing out a cake on stage to celebrate the latter’s 64th birthday.

It was a spontaneous moment during the show and not a pre-rehearsed bit. Black asked Gass to make a wish while blowing out the candles, to which Gass responded: “Don’t miss Trump next time.” “The line I improvised onstage Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake,” Gass now writes in a statement. “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,” Gass added. “I profoundly apologize to those I’ve let down and truly regret any pain I’ve caused.” Black wrote in his own statement that he was “blindsided” by Gass’ comment, adding: “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.