Gass made his comment at a concert in Sydney, Australia on Sunday — the day after the former president narrowly escaped a would-be assassin’s bullet during a rally in Pennsylvania. Video footage from the concert shows Gass’ bandmate, actor Jack Black, singing “Happy Birthday” to Gass, who’s offered a cake by a large robot-like figure. After Black encourages his bandmate to make a wish, Gass replies, “Don’t miss Trump next time.” Though the audience generally appeared to laugh in response, some members can be heard voicing disapproval. Following widespread backlash, Black announced the remainder of the band’s sold-out tour would be cancelled. “I was blindsided by what was said at the show on Sunday,” wrote the 54-year-old on Instagram. “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,” Black said.Comedy duo band Tenacious D has cancelled the remainder of their sold-out tour following backlash after bandmate Kyle Gass wished for the assassination of Donald Trump.
The concert footage was widely denounced by conservative accounts on X, some of which called Gass’ comments “evil and sick,” “twisted and vile,” and referred to Gass as “garbage.”
Gass issued an apology for his comments Tuesday morning.
“The line I improvised onstage Sunday night in Sydney was highly inappropriate, dangerous and a terrible mistake,” he wrote in an Instagram post. “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 apologize to those l've let down and truly regret any pain l've caused.” According to the band’s website, the four remaining concerts scheduled in Australia were sold out. Four of the five U.S. shows scheduled for the fall were also sold out.
The decision to cancel follows a call from Australian Senator Ralph Babet for the band to be deported.
“Tenacious D should be immediately removed from the country after wishing for the assassination of Donald Trump at their Sydney concert," Babet wrote in a July 16 press release.
"I condemn in the strongest possible way the call to political violence by Tenacious D in Sydney on Sunday,” he continued. “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. This was not a joke, he was deadly serious when he wished for the death of the President."
“Anything less than deportation is an endorsement of the shooting and attempted assassination of Donald J. Trump, the 45th and soon-to-be 47th President of the United States," Babet added.
Last month, Black endorsed President Joe Biden at a fundraiser in Hollywood.
“My president needs me,” said the actor, who donned a “Dark Biden” t-shirt and American flag overalls.
“And when the president wins in November, I’m pretty sure I’m gonna get a sweet shoutout in his victory speech for what I gave up to be here,” he joked. “Because when democracy is at stake, Jack Black answers the call. Mr. President, you’re welcome.”
