Tenacious D’s Kyle Gass is under fire after making a controversial comment about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump.
On July 14, just one day after Trump was hit by a bullet at a rally in Butler, Pa., Tenacious D — a rock duo comprised of Gass and actor Jack Black — played a show in Australia’s ICC Sydney Theatre where they simultaneously celebrated Gass’ 64th birthday.
In fan-captured footage, Black can be seen presenting a birthday cake to Gass on stage and asking him to “make a wish.” Gass responds, “Don’t miss Trump next time,” referencing the less-than-day-old shooting. The video also captures the audience responding with laughter.
With the video making rounds online, many spectators are critzvcing Gass and the band for making light of the United States’ polarizing approach to gun control and gun violence.
Representatives for Gass and Tenacious D did not immediately respond to Variety‘s request for comment.
Trump was struck in the ear after a gunman opened fire from an elevated position outside the venue, the U.S. Secret Service confirmed on the day of the shooting. The Secret Service “neutralized” the shooter, who died. One person in the crowd was killed by the gunfire, and two were critically injured.
Meanwhile, Tenacious D is scheduled to play a series of October concerts to support Rock the Vote, the nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to building the political power of young people.
From Variety US