Jack Black Cancels Tour After Trump Controversy

Apparently during the show, Australia, guitarist and vocalist Kyle Gass was presented with a cake for his birthday and was asked to make a wish, he responded by saying “Don’t miss Trump next time.” In the post, Jack Black says that he was blindsided by his stage partner’s comments and apologizes to fans for the cancellation of the Tenacious D tour.

Kyle Gass’s comments and Jack Black’s post come merely days after the assassination attempt on former president Donald J. Trump. After several shots were fired from a nearby roof, the attempt left Trump with a bullet-grazed right ear while claiming the lives of two civilians (including the shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks) and critically injuring two more rally attendees. Law enforcement officials recovered an AR-15-type semiautomatic rifle from Cook’s body, as well as a rudimentary explosive device hidden in his vehicle.

While Jack Black has never shied away from publically criticizing Trump, as seen by his speech at President Biden’s recent fundraiser, he believed the comments from his bandmate went way too far. In the posted statement Jack Black furthers this sentiment by saying how he does not have the patience for hate speech or political violence in any form.

He continues, “After much reflection, I no longer feel it is appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour, and all creative plans are on hold.” It is assumed that their “Rock D Vote” tour, set to begin in October is one of those plans that will be put under pause.

Following the announcement, Kyle Gass took to Instagram with his own post. Gass explains that the comment was the result of a bad improv choice and an inappropriate and dangerous mistake. He explains that he does not condone violence of any kind and that he deeply apologizes and regrets any harm he has caused with his words. However, this would not save him from Jack Black completely pulling the tour and other planned creative projects the duo had.

Ten more sold-out shows for the Tenacious D tour were scheduled. However, once the clip of Gass started circulating on social media, Jack Black called it quits. Previously booked venues have begun reaching out to ticket holders to deliver the bad news, but no strategy for refunds has been put in place.

No more statements have been issued by either Jack Black or Kyle Gass, and it is not certain if any more will be made. Tenacious D’s fate also remains up in the air. Fans speculate if this event will truly break up the band forever or if the two members just need a little hiatus. With over 35 years of collaboration and friendship between them, many hope that the latter will ring true.