Musician and “School of Rock” star Jack Black is stepping away from his band Tenacious D after bandmate Kyle Gass joked about Saturday’s assassination attempt on presidential candidate Donald Trump during a performance overseas.
“I was blindsided by what was said at the show on Sunday,” Black said in a statement sent to the Daily News and posted online. “I would never condone hate speech or encourage political violence in any form.”
Gass was asked to make a wish on stage in Australia where the band was performing on his 64th birthday Sunday.
“Don’t miss Trump next time,” he joked hours after a 20-year-old gunman fired a shot at Trump’s head during a political rally in Pennsylvania. A spectator was killed and two others were injured in the deadly violence.
While Black has referred to Trump as a an “evil warlock” and a “piece of s–t,” he said Gass’ joke in the aftermath of the tragedy apparently crossed a line.
“After much reflection, I no longer feel it is appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour,” Black said in his statement. “All future creative plans are on hold. I am grateful to the fans for their support and understanding.”
Backlash against Tenacious D on right-wing media outlets and on the social platform X was almost immediate. Though Black seemed surprised by his bandmate’s comment, some fans felt he shared responsibility for what was said.
“None of them or their music/movies will ever be played in our home again,” wrote music producer Chris Loesch, whose wife Dana Loesch formerly represented the National Rifle Association.
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