Popular U.S TV host, Jimmy Kimmel is asking for forgiveness after a video of him criticizing and giving out offensive impressions about black celebrities, made it to the internet. This immediately sparked conversations and backlash from fans.
Seeing what had happened, Jimmy Kimmel took to his social media page to apologize to his fans and the black community for his insensitive and embarrassing statements about black celebrities years ago.
Jimmy Kimmel talked about several popular people, including Karl Malone. The impression about black celebrities was aired from 2000-2004, on a comedy show titled “The Man Show.”
Jimmy Kimmel wore blackface to stage, to impersonated Malone and although people thought if funny then, there was nothing funny about it now, especially with the protests and call for Black Lives Matter
The black community and everyone who stands with them, has been on edge for the past few weeks. This is due to the unnecessary killings of black men and women in society, in America. Millions of people have relayed their thoughts on white cops killing black men and women.
A few weeks ago, this led to a prolonged protest; after a man known as George Floyd, was killed by a white police officer. People took to the streets to campaign against the killings and ensure that the police officers responsible for the death of Floyd, be charged to court.
In his statement, Jimmy Kimmel mentioned that he has not only seen the error of his words and behaviour, he has matured over the years. Furthermore, he said that anyone who watches his show will know for sure that he has evolved
Kimmel insisted that he did not mean to mock anyone, neither is he defending what he did. However, fans should find a place in their hearts to forgive him.
“There’s nothing more important to me than your respect and I apologize to those who were genuinely hurt or offended by the makeup I wore or the words I spoke,” Kimmel said in his statement.