Sydney, July 16, 2024 – Comedy rock band Tenacious D, composed of Jack Black and Kyle Gass, has cancelled their remaining tour dates in Australia and New Zealand following an uproar over a controversial comment made by Gass during a recent concert in Sydney.

During the performance on Sunday, Black presented Gass with a birthday cake onstage and asked him to make a wish. Gass responded with, “Don’t miss Trump next time,” referencing a recent assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. The remark, captured on social media, quickly drew widespread condemnation.

Australian senator Ralph Babet was among the most vocal critics, calling for the band to be deported. In a statement on social media platform X, Babet denounced the comment as an endorsement of political violence, urging the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Immigration Minister Andrew Giles to revoke the band’s visas and remove them from the country. “To advocate and or wish for the assassination of a President is egregious, disgusting, filthy, evil, and not acceptable in any way, shape or form,” Babet stated​ (Brisbane Entertainment Centre)​.

Jack Black expressed his regret over the incident in a statement to CNN, saying he was “blindsided by what was said at the show” and emphasizing that he does not condone hate speech or political violence in any form. Black added that after much reflection, he felt it was no longer appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour, and all future creative plans were on hold. He thanked fans for their support and understanding​ (Brisbane Entertainment Centre)​.

Kyle Gass also issued an apology on Instagram, acknowledging that his improvised line was “highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake.” He stressed that he does not condone violence of any kind and expressed deep regret for his lapse in judgment and any pain caused by his comment​ (Brisbane Entertainment Centre)​.

As a result of the backlash, Gass was dropped by his Hollywood talent agent, Michael Greene of Greene Talent, who confirmed the separation but did not provide additional comments.

Tenacious D’s tour, which included upcoming performances in cities such as Newcastle, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Wellington, and Auckland, has been officially cancelled, with ticket holders being offered full refunds through authorized ticket outlets​ (Brisbane Entertainment Centre)​.

The controversy has overshadowed what had been a successful run for the band, known for their energetic performances and unique blend of comedy and rock music. The fallout from this incident has cast a pall over their future endeavors as the band grapples with the repercussions of Gass’s off-the-cuff remark.