Musician and “School of Rock” star Jack Black is stepping away from his band Tenacious D after bandmate Kyle Gass joked about Saturday’s assassination attempt on presidential candidate Donald Trump during a performance overseas.
“I was blindsided by what was said at the show on Sunday,” Black said in a statement sent to the Daily News and posted online. “I would never condone hate speech or encourage political violence in any form.”
Gass was asked to make a wish on stage in Australia where the band was performing on his 64th birthday Sunday.
“Don’t miss Trump next time,” he joked hours after a 20-year-old gunman fired a shot at Trump’s head during a political rally in Pennsylvania. A spectator was killed and two others were injured in the deadly violence.
While Black has referred to Trump as a an “evil warlock” and a “piece of s–t,” he said Gass’ joke in the aftermath of the tragedy apparently crossed a line.
“After much reflection, I no longer feel it is appropriate to continue the Tenacious D tour,” Black said in his statement. “All future creative plans are on hold. I am grateful to the fans for their support and understanding.”
Information on rescheduled concert dates and ticket refunds is expected to be forthcoming. The band was next scheduled to perform Thursday in Boondall, Australia.
Backlash against Tenacious D on right-wing media outlets and on the social platform X was almost immediate. Though Black seemed surprised by his bandmate’s comment, some fans felt he shared responsibility for what was said.
“None of them or their music/movies will ever be played in our home again,” wrote music producer Chris Loesch, whose wife Dana Loesch formerly represented the National Rifle Association.