Jack Black, Kyle Gass Reunite Tenacious D Post-Trump Joke Controversy

After a turbulent period marked by controversy, Tenacious D, featuring Jack Black and Kyle Gass, is set to reunite. This comes in the wake of a scandal related to an onstage joke about an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

Background of the Controversy

During a performance in Sydney in July 2024, Jack Black made a light-hearted birthday wish while blowing out candles. Kyle Gass responded with a comment that referred to the recent assassination attempt on Trump, saying, “Don’t miss Trump next time.” The remark ignited widespread outrage, with media outlets globally covering the incident.

Consequences of the Incident

• The band faced backlash, leading to the cancellation of their entire Australian tour.
• Both Black and Gass expressed regret, with Gass describing the incident as a result of “terrible judgment.”
• Australian senator Ralph Babet even called for the band’s deportation.

This fallout forced the band to pause all future creative endeavors as they dealt with the repercussions. Gass described the experience as “a tsunami of shit rolling over you,” noting that even his family was targeted, including his elderly mother. The reaction underscored the insane climate surrounding public discourse today.

Reconciliation between Jack Black and Kyle Gass

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Gass revealed that he and Black have reconciled. “We hashed it out. And it was hard. It is like a marriage,” he said. The discussion emphasized the importance of understanding each other during difficult times.

Reflections on the Joke

Gass acknowledged that the joke was ill-timed and naïve. “If there was ever a ‘too soon,’ it was this,” he admitted, acknowledging that he thought he was creating a private moment. He expressed remorse for the hurt caused by his words and contemplated the responsibilities entertainers hold.

Public Statements and Apologies

Following the controversy, Black issued a statement noting he was blindsided by Gass’s remark and condemned hate speech. Gass also apologized, stating, “The line I improvised was highly inappropriate and a terrible mistake.” However, after some days, he deleted the apology, leading to speculation about his intentions. Gass clarified that he hadn’t recanted his apology.

Overall, despite the rocky period, both members remain optimistic about Tenacious D’s future. Black stated in August 2024 that “everybody takes a break sometimes,” helping fans anticipate a return to form for the iconic duo.