Viacom CBS has fired TV host Nick Cannon over his comments based on anti-Semitic theories aired on ‘Cannon’s Class,’ his podcast that was posted on YouTube last month.
Why Cannon was Fired
A spokesperson representing the media giant said in a statement that the entertainer promoted hateful speech. Cannon was said to have spread anti-Semitic conspiracy rants or theories during that episode.
The spokesperson said Viacom CBS disapproves bigotry of all kinds and categorically condemn all forms of anti-Semitism. The media giant expressed its deep dissatisfaction that Cannon failed to apologize or acknowledge his perpetuation of anti-Semitism. And that is why they are severing all ties with the entertainer. The spokesperson also stated that they spoke to Nick about the podcast episode.
The Podcast Episode
Cannon, the host of ‘Masked Singer’ from Fox, interviewed Richard ‘Professor Griff’ Griffin, a former group member of Public Enemy group during the podcast. Griffin was booted out of the rap group for his anti-Semitic comments back in the late ’80s.
During the podcast episode, Nick referenced baseless conspiracy theories about the Jewish clan, claiming that Black people were the true Hebrews. The host also referred to centralized banking, the Rothschilds, the 13 families as well as the bloodlines that control all things even from outside the United States.
Conversation Not About Hate, Says Cannon
Throughout the interview, the entertainer kept repeating that the discussion had nothing to do with hate. Despite his multiple claims, however, Cannon never stopped making belittling remarks or claims about non-Black Jewish individuals.
According to the host, the Jewish people who don’t have melanin are somewhat less, claiming that they were taken to the Caucasus. And there, the sun started to work on them via deterioration. He claimed that they started acting out of fear, low-esteem, and deficiency. Cannon added later on that they had to be nothing but savages.
Praising the Nation of Islam Leader
During the podcast episode, Cannon and Griffin heaped praises on Louis Farrakhan, leader of Nation of Islam. Farrakhan had, at one time, expressed his anti-Semitic views unbridled.
Cannon’s Reaction to the Episode
Cannon had no choice than to address the untold outrage the resurfaced episode caused over the weekend. In a statement posted on his Facebook page, the ‘Love Don’t Cost a Thing’ star made it known that he has no hate in his heart nor malicious intentions. He alleged that he did not spread hateful rhetoric or condone hate speech.
The TV host added that we live in times in which it is much more important than ever to promote understanding and unity. According to Cannon, both the Jewish and Black communities have faced oppression, hatred, prejudice, and persecution for thousands of years. He believed that both communities have and will – in many ways – continue to work together in order to overcome these challenges or obstacles.
Cannon informed FastCompany last Monday that some rabbis have contacted him since the backlash started. He indicated his intention of having them on his podcast so that they can continue the conversation.
