Michael Richards' apology: Accepted?

Aiden Sat, Dec 16, 2006 at 04:53 AM EST

I was very surprised to see no physicians named John Hancock in the Maryland Board of Physicians website ... absolutely shocked! ;-)

See http://www.docboard.org/md/df/mdsearch.htm

Aiden Mon, Dec 11, 2006 at 01:08 AM EST

Re: "Dr. John Hancock"

"Dr." Hancock ... most physicians I know know how to spell. Are you claiming to be a physician so you can express your personal feelings? Maybe he's bipolar, maybe you're a quack. Don't be an idiot ... it doesn't suit your "profession"

joey Sun, Dec 3, 2006 at 01:20 PM EST

I have always thought that Mr. Michael Richards was one if the funniest comedians of all times, and now he has mistified me with such an awful display of character. Certainly, he should have took a second to realize his response before making such horrific comments and to do it at such a venue. I still like him (I am African American), but I hope in the future that he will surely think before he speaks!

Dustin Thu, Nov 30, 2006 at 02:20 PM EST

I cannot believe what we have come to. who made jesse jackson the president of blacks. hes an extortionist. people have been using that word in comedy for years, not saying its right but why Michael Richards, and theopy, are you kidding? Another thing, Who decided to make jesse jackson decide if he was going to exept the apolgy. if any one needs theopy its him, this whole things an ego trip if you ask me. jesse jacksons been out of the lime light ever since martin luther king died, other then little side stuff he feels that he needs to feel important and i think its Bull. michael Richards you don't have to apoligize, your just tryin to do your job, you shouldn't have to dummy down to a Dumb ass like Jesse Jackson

mikey Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 04:08 AM EST

this comment is in response to darth dooku

i can understand clearly where aer you are coming from. somewhere along these lines of what we declare "racist/racism" there is a great dichotomy that seems to allow what you considered to be a double standard. im an african american myself i enjoy watching black comedians, i engage in conversations with african americans everyday, and with my mother and father as well.
Racism has become so embedded in our hearts, our minds, in society that everyone shoulders the blame for quote, unquote racist beliefs, but if you expect me to believe or anyone else for that matter that when an african american comedian saying things like "white people are uppity, or they think they run this country, or they snitch on people, or commonly overuse the phrase "white boy"; all those phrases are used in the name of "COMEDY" and if you can honestly say that the views Richard's expressed were soley in the name of "COMEDY" then we can all agree the America has over reacted.

but im really tired of people saying "black comedians do it all the time" please give me examples of when and where, and if you want to say that it happens on the corner where young black teens congregate or in the househoulds of african africans all over the world please tell me how you know this?

im suprised at all because in great american fashion you have proved to be a perfect example of what happens when someone or something goes wrong, you have totally turned a blind eye to what has happened Richard's made some derogatory comments with the intent to hurt and offend a particular group of people, that is all that should matter.

but instead in a very child like way you've belittled yourself to a level mediocrity and with a high since of neglect said "they do it, why cant we" "they call us names. you sound like my 5 years old neices and nephews. as long as this continue to happens we will never grow as americans its not about black or white yellow or brown its about US (united states) but we would rather justify then to clear up the wrong that has been done.
thats all i have to say.

"GOD IS GOOD, ALL THE TIME"

Honeybee Mon, Nov 27, 2006 at 08:49 AM EST

One thing about this whole debate puzzles me, and that is the blanket notion that the N-word should be banned in all cases. Does this mean we ban "Huckleberry Fin" as well as the autobiography of Dick Gregory and/or the nobel prize winning works of Toni Morrison? Nonesense. Context matters, and yes, there is a double standard.

Is the double standard worth pointing out and discussing? Yes. But simplfying it to "If you can, then I can" is both smug and disengenuous. But I also disagree with the notion that all white comedians/performers who use it are reviled for it. George Carlin is a very deft comedian who has used it, and I can even think of a Elvis Costello song that uses it. But in both cases, the context makes it clear that performers are not meaning to attack or hurt by there words.

The context of Michael Richard's rant is what many found so offensive.

lindy Fri, Nov 24, 2006 at 02:47 AM EST

Hmm...John Hancock, are you for real? Eh, whether or not your are, that's still an intersting read anyway. There were definitely some weird moments up there. At times it's like he's talking to the audience, but at other times, it's like he's talking to himself without even knowing what's going on anymore. Weird indeed. Thanks for the interesting info.

Darth Dooku Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 08:03 PM EST

And by the way, Rick Chance has a very good point.

Darth Dooku Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 08:00 PM EST

Michael Richards looked really upset over this. Sometimes, people slip and let loose things that they hide, or sometimes that they don't even believe. Look deep inside, and you may see the same potential to do this inside of you. Now i don't really like the show Seinfeld, and i don't even know much about Michael Richards aside from this incident and that he played a character called Kramer. But his apology, yes it was kind of all over the place, but it looked like he was upset and couldn't find the words to express himself. i think he should be given another change. *shrugs* And it was very rude of the audience to laugh at him during his apology. Come on, he was trying to seriously apologize, don't discredit him by doing that. Seriously.

Rick Chance Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 05:42 PM EST

Double Standards are what bothers me about Richards' situation. Some black comedians, who freely defame white folks and belittle them, are allowed to make racist statements because of the stupid reasoning that blacks cannot be racist because of their plight of being the victims of racist attitudes and actions. There is nothing so devious as this lie. If you are robbed, does this give you the right to rob? If you are treated with racism, does this give you the right to be a racist?

You see, as bad as the things Richards said were, and how the black community, rightfully, is indignant about what he said, you must also have a closer inspection of what is really going on here---that a white comedian in America cannot say or be as demeaning or insulting to another race that a black comedian is "allowed" to be. This is not only revealing at the duplicity of what is right and wrong in this society, in regards to fairness, but it offers a revealing look at how one group of people can get away with something and another group cannot.

Richards' tirade was helpful in revealing the side of America that is not talked about very often, and it is this...just because the African Americans have suffered injustice in this country, does not give them the right to have a condescending and racist attitude towards others. If Richards, as a white comedian is guilty of racist attitudes, then what of the black comedians who spread the message of hatred regarding their attitudes agaisnt whites? Before you point to the white man as being racist, all you need to do is to listen to a black comedian or rapper to see where some of these racist attitudes truly come from.

Look at how young African American female cashiers treat and belittle Asians and you'll see where some of this racism comes from. Listen to the conversations of black men on street corners and you'll hear things worse than you'll ever hear from Richards concerning white folks. Listen to the talk of African American husbands and wives behind closed doors and tell us if they aren't as racist, if not more so, then their white counterparts.

Everybody is guilty here, and don't act so righteous...whether you are black or white.

John Hancock Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 04:26 PM EST

Hello,
My name is Dr. John Hancock and am a doctor from Baltimore, MD. I hope you will read the letter in it’s entirety. I don’t know how to contact Mr. Michael Richards so I am writing to news corporations to see if you could ask these questions about Mr. Michael Richards being Bipolar. After studying the tape of his standup, his Letterman interview, his history and comments by fellow comedians I strongly feel that Michael Richards has BIPOLAR DISORDER. I will tell you the following facts which back up my theory and assuming at the end of this you will feel the same way.
There are many little clues which gave away his condition. When I first say the video I noticed things that other people didn’t pay much attention to such as Richards talking to himself. In the video of him at the club, after he has said the “n” word three times he says, calmly “You see, it shocks you, it shocks you.“ and at the end “there‘s still those words, those words, those words” indicated that apart of him knew that what was going should not be taking place.
-shifting from Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity -- unrealistic beliefs in one's ability, intelligence, and powers; -- to being calm, a major Mood Swing, which is characteristic of bipolar disorder) He also says, to himself, “They are going to arrest me for calling a black man a N*****” again indicating the former.
At the end of the video he goes on to say, to himself, “that’s it we’ve had it, we’ve had” and says a couple of things and just walks off stage indicating that one part of him knew he had just did something wrong and the talking to himself during that situation also indicates some kind of mental condition.
That was the first thing that caught my eye. The second thing that caught my eye was the “mania phase” where the persons symptoms include
- Sudden changes from being joyful to being irritable, angry, and hostile (The simple heckler triggers the outburst during a comedy standup)
- Restlessness, increased energy (indicated by his past “Kramer” characteristic, and how he behaved that night, and to the testimonial of other comedians, how he usually acts on stage. Richards, on the Letterman interview, says “ I‘m a performer, I push the envelope, I work in a very uncontrolled manner on stage. I do a lot of free association, spontaneous, I go into character…I don‘t know the rage, the rage did went all over the place, it went to everybody in the room…I‘m not a racist that‘s what’s so crazy about this.” In bipolar people who have gone untreated often cannot tell the difference and often the lines between the two become blurred.
The main part of this that is interesting is the part where he says “I’m not a racist, that’s what’s so insane about this, and yet it’s said it comes through, it fires out of me!” This part tells you a lot about what is going on. Bipolar disorder people during maniac phase cannot control themselves and they have symptoms that also include
- Rapid talk, talkativeness (such as him saying “You can talk, you can talk, you can talk your brave now *beep* and “You’ve been talking and talking and talking”)
- Racing thoughts
- Tendency to show poor judgment (Saying the “n” word
- unrealistic beliefs in one's ability, intelligence, and powers (Calling people names and loud, forceful talking)
- Increased reckless behaviors
All these symptoms can be backed up by the video that was captured.
The club owner later said on an interview that 45 minutes after the outburst he finds Michael Richards at the club with a tear in his eye. A sudden jump from feeling superior (Sinbad said in an interview that Michael almost seemed like he was talking to the guy as being superior and says “I’m rich, I could have you followed and arrested” also syaing the "n" word was used in order to make himself feel superior over the heckler)to the feeling of worthlessness and depressed about what had happened.
Symptoms of this depressive state include

- Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness (The former, and Letterman interview when he says “And you know many of the comics, many performers are in Las Vegas and New Orleans trying to raise money for what happened there and for this to happen, for me to be in a comedy club and flip out and say this crap, you know, I’m deeply, deeply sorry!”)He says it like a person who was standing aside and watching some guy on stage say things that HE would never say. An interesting and main clue.
- Difficulty concentrating (Letterman interview, constantly stuttering and seems confused)
- Sad, anxious, irritability ( The facial and body language, anxious, constantly moving in his chair, irritability, at himself when he voices strongly about what he did and puts himself down.)

One cannot argue that the two videos of Michael Richards are like day and night. His history indicates that he is usually never like this, very quiet. Comic Paul Rodriguez said he never even heard him say a cuss word before. Comic Paul Mooney said he has known Michael Richards for a very long time and would have never expected this. Though on the contrary the only other time such behavior, though not on this level, was seen was by his character of Kramer which made him so famous.
Jerry Seinfeld said he knew what kind of person he was onstage and was crazy and quirky. There is a quote by Michael Richards when he was on Oprah saying “ My job is to stay out of his way” talking about his character. Maybe the character was so convincing and good was because it was really caused by a disorder.
In an interview with a fellow comic, he says he has seen Richards "flip out" before. One story he mentioned was when a 80 year old woman says to Michael Richards that "this was not Seinfeld" and he was not really funny(a comparison to the recent outburst) and he cussed her and the audience out. So there is prior outbreaks which means that this is not a "ONE TIME THING" and the prior time it was NOT racist just an outburst for a small thing.
The evidence is not conclusive and I am basing this on the video of him at the club, the interview with Letterman, the testimonials of other comedians and friends who have a long history with him and some with a short history, and his actual history such as his appearance and demeanor from years ago. I may be completely wrong but I have evidence to support my claim. To judge a person completely, you have to have everything on the table and if something is not then it makes it incomplete.
Personaly I don't care about the man but if he needs to revealed of who he truly is, whether it is good or bad. The question should be asked not only for the sake finding out the truth but of stopping a chain reaction which could include violence. Some people may not believe it but the question should be asked and Mr. Michael Richards needs to be checked out. I hope you will take this question and ask it and look at the facts because people should know another side of the story.

I truly Appreciate you taking this time to read this,
Thank You,
John Hancock

Tara Smith Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 10:38 AM EST

Although Mr. Richards' comments were offensive and shocking, I don't feel he should have apologized. I am African American and I am not mad at him. I'm glad he let his true feelings show. I'm thankful that he came out. I'm also thankful that he wasn't in Atlanta or Detroit when he said all those things because he might have been the one hanging upside down with a fork up his a$$. It is scary though because we don't know how many more undercover racists are out there. I am not mad at him. I feel sorry for him. These feelings he has did not come to him last Friday morning. He's obviously felt this way about black people all his life and that is so sad.

Hatred is something that is taught. He was taught to hate black people by his parents and his parents were taught to hate black people by their parents and so on and so forth. All of this black/white hatred goes all the way back to slavery. Slavery really hurt this country and I don't think it'll ever recover from it. There will always be racism in America. There are just as many black prejudiced people in the world as there are white. We just don't know who's who and what's what. So I thank Michael Richards for letting the world know who and what he is. Are there anymore undercover racists that we don't know about? Sure there are. He's not the only one. I appreciate him coming forth about his true feelings.

If Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle say anything about white people they are well justified because we didn't ask to come over here. Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle are not racists. I have never heard either one of them go on a "cracker" rampage. They are real comedians. Their material is funny and while they make fun of white people, they also make fun of black people and it is funny. That's what comedy is all about, laughter. Love, not pain.

Michael Richards could have kept that apology because it was not sincere. Paul Mooney didn't apologize for bashing Diana Ross in the presence of her daughter on the BET Comedy Awards show because he meant what he said. I didn't like what he said and I thought his behavior and his material was very tacky but at least he kept it real which is more than I can say for our beloved "Kramer." As I said before, I feel sorry for him. Here it is 2006 and a white man still thinks it's cool to call black people niggers. He doesn't need to apologize to us, he needs to apologize to the Good Lord and ask Him to have mercy on his soul. That's what I plan to do.

Oh yeah, and when they hold a press conference concerning Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle saying anything to hurt anybody, black or white, please let me know. I want to be there, on the front row.

Hollyweird Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 06:34 AM EST

Gosh, where is the uproar about what the hecklers have said? Or about what they said before the tape started?

Where's the uproar every time Chris Rock or Dave Chappelle makes a racist remark towards white people?

Where's the uproar over Jamie Foxx's comments?

Richards blew his top, went on national TV to apologize. If you're still too sensitive to get over it, you obviously need some help!

Mas Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 04:56 AM EST

I'm black and I have to say Michael Richards is either a flat-out racist or at the very least has some real resentment against blacks, angry or not and clearly was wrong for what he said. You know why I know this? Because I've felt the same way in a similar fashion. Anger is like alchohol, it brings the things you wouldn't normaly say out into the open. I was seriously bad on funds, so much so that I had about three dollar's worth of pennies to buy a gallon of gas. After barely making it to the gas station (I literally wouldn't have made it to another) I was refused by this Indian (not native american, INDIA indian) because he 'didn't want to count my pennies at the end of the day' which I understood and under normal situations, I would've been like, 'okay, fine' I'll go somewhere else, probably pissed. But when I told him my situation and that I'm borderline stuck at the gas station, he said it's not his problem and still wouldn't take my money. It was extremely hot, I'm trying ot get my wife to her dad's place and we're late, and I just flipped out on the guy. I musta called him every name in the book including something along the lines of'take your cheap *** back to where you came from you penny pinching **** coming over here acting high and mighty'. My wife calmed me down (finally) and I eventually got somebody to take my change to bills. I got my gas and left. Anybody who knows me knows I get along with just about anybody, and any color. But that resentment was still there nonetheless. There is a point ot this story so bear with me. Later, not an hour later, my car overheated, I pulled off the freeway, stuck in no man's land. A tour bus (a mini) pulls up and offers to take us to the gas station to grab some water and coolant to cool the radiator. Did I mention he was indian as well? What I said was wrong and so was Richards.

Theotis Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 03:36 AM EST

Apology accepted? Most definitely not!! How does one go from being angry at two hecklers to affronting everyone on earth with dark skin? I was not a member of his audience but I took umbrage at his disparaging tirade. When Letterman asked him how he would have responded if the hecklers had been of any other ethnic group, he responded that, "It may have happened..." Yeah, Bullsh-t!!! This man obviously has a major problem when confronted by "Afro-Americans". He is in need of some serious counseling. His pent up "rage" though is no different from many other people who say "I am not a racist but....". Seinfield had to rush and get Richards to perform a public apology. Otherwise his wallet as well as that of Richards would suffer even more damage. Richards' "jujitsu" style apology though was far from enough for me. An apology on "BET" would have been far more appropriate. Richards has always come off to me as someone with a drug problem. When he talks about getting back on the horse again, one wonders what he truly meant! Richards stated, "Talk about a bad night!" and I would agree with him. I will never watch another episode of Seinfield nor would I ever remotely consider paying my hard earned cash to watch this bigot perform.

Montgomery Thu, Nov 23, 2006 at 01:28 AM EST

Racism in America:

What everybody's afraid to say here is... Richards is just a racist... GIBSON is an ANTI-SEMITE!

For some reason, that's worse!?

Macaca Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 11:45 PM EST

Hey give the guy a break. He made a mistake and apologized. You should be upset with the "victims" who are now trying to profit.

Kat Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 09:31 PM EST

I disagree with you. That word sums up the horrible racism in this country that has occurred and keeps on occurring. For an African American to use the word, whether you agree or not, they are trying to take the power away from it. That word was used in history when people were being lynched, beaten, and burned by white people just for the color of their skin. You can't say the same about slurs for white people. It is culturally sensitive and respectful to NOT use that word as a white person.

Wermi Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 08:18 PM EST

If the patrons were that offended, I would suggest that Mr. Richards attorney petition for a subpoena of the patrons' CDs, DVD collections, MP3s and see if they own any recordings with the so-called "n" word. If they do, then throw out any claim to be offended. Remember folks, a word isn't offensive unless it's offensive no matter who says it.

Joe Parente Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 07:43 PM EST

I do not condone what Mr.Richards said in retaliation to some guests at his show, however being in the entertainment industry myself I understand fustration it is not easy to be on stage and do a show there is alot of prep involved to make it succsessful. Yes his reactions were wrong but he was also treated unfair by heckelers. I accept his apology and hope to see him in the future.

Stephanie Travitsky Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 06:41 PM EST

That is not the point. The point is that Michael Richards just blurted it out in a unintellectual tirate. Chris Rock on the other went to school in Bath Beach, Brooklyn where he was surrounded by white Italians and Russians. He can make "Cracker Jokes" and have a punchline. It is the way the words are interpersonally presented. Richards let out the word like a bull in a china shop. Richards is sorry, and hopefully he learned a valueable lesson.

whocares Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 02:54 PM EST

its funny, a black comedian can rant on and on about white people in a racist manner, and only ensure their popularity. But a white man in the same instance would surely see the demise of their entire career. it is a double standard in this country. (i am not at all defended the words he chose to use.)

Honeybee Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 09:59 AM EST

I think this nasty and fairly clear cut incident has brought up some complicated issues. Nobody seems to be condoning or defending Michael Richards behavior or attitudes - probably because anyone who has seen the tape (and the media has played it over and over again) can see that the outburst wasn't a joke nor was it meant to be. Michael Richards is not Andy Kaufman, and he is not Lenny Bruce (who was known for some pathetic, rage fueled outbursts of his own late in his career.)

It wouldn't surprise me if it turns out that Richards is mentally ill or brain injured, but it is looking more and more like that is not that case, and he has a history of racist attitudes that has thusfar been kept quiet.

But I think it is worth discussing, with reason and respect, why people are willing to forgive Isaiah Washington or Mel Gibson. Is it because there is no tape of their outbursts? Is it because Gibson and Washington are currently more sucessful than Richards? Is homophobia more acceptable or since we know Mel Gibson was raised to have a head full of vitriol by a nazi sympathizer do we have sympathy for him? Personally, I think it is more about money than anything else.

Also, it is worth discussing if the n-word is ever acceptable in causal use whatever color the person. I don't believe in fearing words, and I'll quote "Huckleberry Fin" without censoring myself, but I don't use that term in conversation. But I'm not African-American, and I at least understand the ways in which black comics and artists use it.

I don't know if there are easy answers.

Lynn Wed, Nov 22, 2006 at 09:04 AM EST

First of all, He only apologized because Jerry begged him to so as not to hurt the DVD sales (that ironically came out the same day). He didn't mean a word he was saying it was so obvious that people were laughing at him. He seemed like he was still "playing a character". The real Michael Richards is a sexist, racist bigot as evidenced by those who have seen him behind the scenes and everyday life. I hope Jerry and company distances themselves from him quick before further damage is done. Next, he will be insulting Jews and talking about how he never wanted to work him Jerry in the first place.

Disrobed Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:51 PM EST

My two cents -- How sorry would Mr. Richards have been if the incident hadn't been caught on tape? Umm... Not a thought in his head? Bingo!

Kat Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:30 PM EST

His rant gave me the chills. It's my belief he has a drug problem or is mentally ill. And as far as David Letterman being the right venue; it totally WAS NOT. He should have just issued a press release that he has problems and go off and get some help. He was not trying to make it so outrageous it would be funny; he was infuriated and hateful; and I hope now he dissapears from any type of performance venue.

Kat Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:26 PM EST

His rant gave me the chills. It's my belief he has a drug problem or is mentally ill. And as far as David Letterman being the right venue; it totally WAS NOT. He should have just issued a press release that he has problems and go off and get some help. He was not trying to make it so outrageous it would be funny; he was infuriated and hateful; and I hope now he dissapears from any type of performance venue.

bootsycolumbia Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 07:12 PM EST

Alana: "He's got all this talent inside him and nowhere to express it." If he's that talented, why doesn't he come up with a one-man show, a stage play, a screenplay, a new television series, a film, a painting, a song, a novel, anything at all? The guy was a washup before this incident, and he's an even bigger washup now. Good riddance. Now if we can get rid of Mel Gibson, Hollywood will be a much better place.

Rod Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 06:52 PM EST

I think Richards probably has some hate towards blacks---even if its bottled up. I don't defend his abhorrent action, but why is no one talking about the equally offensive "cracker" comments? Racist slurs go both ways, and let us also not forget who started the issue by heckling the comic (whether his show was funny or not).

Stephanie Travitsky Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 06:25 PM EST

There is a difference between a laugh and a nervous laugh. I have laughed when I feel nervous and uncomfortable. Radio personality Randy Rhodes was right when she said that if he was going to say the N word, he should have a had a punch line. Richards should have been mature about it, and would have said "Excuse me, my former show is in reruns and on DVD, even if I don't ever have another hit show like Julia Louis Dryfus I still get a decent paycheck in the mail, what do you get? I thought so. Sit down and shut the hell up!" Some people like Michael Richards are not quick to their feet and will respond in a manner that is uncalled for. I think that he might be Bi-Polar and he did a really, really stupid thing. Let the guy get his check in the mail like the members of Kajagoogoo, and perhaps now he will think twice before making a comment like that.

milo Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 06:04 PM EST

yes it was wrong, my question is that after watching the video i can't believe no one (that i know of) have stop to mention the fact that you can hear several people in the audience laughing and getting belly laughs out of his ranting, as if approving/encouraging him to continue. whether it was the hecklers, him, anyone of any race, we as society are still a bunch of ignorant morons.

Darth Nihilus Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 05:57 PM EST

I have always disliked "Kramer" (or any sitcom character that appears and the audience/laugh track applauses like sheep), and now hopefully the ratings for Seinfeld re-runs will plummet and I will no longer have to ever see Kramer on TV again.

I imagine that Jerry is not too happy about this, since there will no doubt now be less demand for his re-runs, and therefore, less $$$.

velrahjah Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 05:49 PM EST

I wonder if it were say, Eddie Griffin, who went on a 3 minute long verbal raping of Jews, if Jerry Seinfeld would be as forgiving? Doubtful! What Richards did on that stage was morally reprehensible. His lack luster, post Seinfeld career, is now officially over. As a fellow "Afro American", I question why the audience laughed during Richards apology on Letterman. Was it nervous laughter, or did they thik it was a bit? Or perhaps, did they find the incident funny? Think about it people!

Andrew Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 05:11 PM EST

"I have yet to see a single Friends/Sex and the City episode with black people, let alone other minorities (I'm not an avid viewer of the show)."

-off topic, but Aisha Tyler was a very recurrent African American character (Charlie, a paleontologist) in "Friends" last couple of seasons. She even dated two anglo characters (Joey and Ross).

Keisha Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 05:06 PM EST

the hecklers werent even heckling. They told him he wasnt funny after he called them out for talking during his set and his first responce was a lynching joke and multiple uses of the N - word which offended more B lacks in the audience than just the heckler. What happened to commediens talking about the hecklers appearance. His instint led to the epithet that means that was his true feeling. His apology is meaningless. "50 years you would have been strung up". Maybe a reference to lynching - come on.

pop Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 04:54 PM EST

i get pissed at all different kinds of people white, clack, spanish, asian etc. i don't call them racial slurs. to use racial slurs against any type of people is WRONG!! no matter what the situation. just because the guy was heckeling him, doesn't give him the right to say what he said. what he said came from a very dark, angry place and that makes him a racist. unfortunatly most people in this world are a little racist. so being drunk, high, angry whatever, if you say something you meant it. there is no excuse.

Blue Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 04:48 PM EST

I just watched the video and I have a question, where's the rest of it? I want to know what the hecklers said to him that started this thing. I mean what he did and how reacted were wrong, but he didn't just go up on stage and start yelling without a reason, so where's the rest of it? If we're going to call this guy a racsit, (which I don't think he is I think he just got pissed and stupid) lets see and hear what the hecklers where saying.

t3hdow Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 03:30 PM EST

To t:

I'm guessing the indifference is:

1) because the overall attitude of homophobia in the African American community is heavier - not to mention homosexuality is still somewhat considered taboo in America as a whole - so the reactions are more lax. To anyone thinking I'm stereotyping, I've heard animosity towards down low brothers (i.e. gay black men having sex behind girlfriend's/wife's backs) recently on campus (I attend an HBCU) and needless to say, the attitude is pretty widespread. I'm more sympathetic, considering homophobia's the very reason they act this way and if it never existed, the problem would never pop up. But I'm getting out of the subject...

2) some other black stars insult our race much more than Washington...like say Flavor Flav's VH1 show

I don't condone homophobia in any form or fashion, especially since one of my friends is a lesbian and she's one of the most interesting people I know. I'm disappointed in Washington, but since I don't care for the show, it hardly affects me. I'm not supporting show, so eh...

You don't have to like homosexuality, but it's no reason to ostracize someone for it. But because of the mixed feelings toward the subject (especially for blacks), it's easy to see why it's more likely to be ignored.

jack Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 03:23 PM EST

Words like 'jerk', or 'a--hole' don't really have any power anymore. If you call somebody that, they are likely to laugh in your face and agree with you. I think most adults have been in arguments and said things they didn't really mean.

Unlike Mel Gibson, I have never heard about Michael Richards saying or doing anything remotely racist. And since he didn't hide behind publicists, or try to blame it on alchohol, and came out immediately with an apology, I am willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Miranda Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 03:14 PM EST

I'm not at all sure that saying something in anger doesn't make someone a racist. I mean, why couldn't he just call the guy a jerk, or something worse that EW won't let me write here (like a-hole, etc.)? The fact that the word that came most readily from his mouth was the N word ... yeah, I think that makes him a racist, and I thought the same thing with Mel Gibson.

jack Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 03:00 PM EST

Excusable? No

Forgivable? Yes

t Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 02:57 PM EST

Isaiah Washington... Isaiah Washington... Isaiah Washington...
why no mention why no mention why no mention.

What gives people? Will the black people commenting not recognize what he did? Because he's black?

Jews, blacks, gays, next up- Hispanics! Dwarfs! Then the last remaining acceptable hate: fat people!

t3hdow Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 02:54 PM EST

"If everyone who is racist started "building houses for the poor", there wouldn't be any trees left. (Sorry. I'm just so disgusted by all of the conflict.)"

LOL Toni, nice joke to lighten up this thread

I don't think this incident will change my Seinfeld viewing anytime soon, despite the fact I'm black. Yeah, his actions are disgusting, but then again, a lot of people with shady personalities are on TV/music/movies over the years. Like some posters said, if I really cared about the personal intent on who's behind the camera, then I'd probably wouldn't watch much TV in the first place. There in lies the problem of modern pop culture...too many actors can't blend into their characters because of the overbearing media. In all honesty, I'd give Richards the benefit of the doubt over Gibson, though I probably wouldn't fully forgive any of them over their actions.

And to TJ, Seinfeld did a better job with minority characters compared to Friends. For crying out loud, half the main characters are Jewish. Recurring characters are black (including that funny, fast talking laywer). There's even a Pakistanian. I have yet to see a single Friends/Sex and the City episode with black people, let alone other minorities (I'm not an avid viewer of the show).

As for the use of the word n*gger, I have to agree with Nick from the FX show Black/White. Either all races should be ok with using it or none at all. It's kind of a paradox for black people to use it loosely and laugh at it, yet if anyone else says it, they're instantly the leader of the KKK. Then just about every rapper drops the word like loose change. You can't have it both ways.

teecee Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 02:52 PM EST

keri, you wrote exactly what i've been thinking. i have not seen mel after his "incident." richards obviously has issues, but he came out on national t.v. and tried to make ammends. i am a huge seinfeld fan, will continue watching, though some innocence has been lost.

Brucifer Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 02:43 PM EST

It sounded to me like a very, very poor attempt at being Lenny Bruce.

T Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 02:40 PM EST

As a black woman (Afro-American to Richards), I was offended by the remarks made by him. The "N" word is thrown around a lot today and the weight of it has decreased, but that does not take away from his use of it. If he had just used the "N" word, I may be more forgiving, but to refer to a lynching is a problem. I don't like to use the "N" word, but if I'm in a rage, I have a tendency to. So, I can understand the rage theory, but he took it a step further with the lynching. I don't care who you are, you talk about a lynching, and an apology is not going to be good enough.

I don't care if people are fans of Richards' character on Seinfeld, that doesn't make his comments forgiveable, nor excuseable. The Jewish population burned Mel Gibson for his comments, but Richards is forgiven? Both men made horrible and disdainful comments about a group of people. One is not worse than the other because of the man, and if you think so, reexamine a lot of things you "think" you know about racism. It's horrendous and inexcuseable.

Meka Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 02:37 PM EST

It is a shame that crap like this still happens. Richards, Gibson and Washington were all wrong! Hate and bigotry will be here for many more years to come. It is sad but true. I find all of the culprits to be disturbing.

I say treat people the way you want to be treated.

jack Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 02:30 PM EST

Heather, I didn't say getting heckled made it ok. The point I was making was that saying something in anger doesn't make somebody a racist. Michael Richards has been in the public eye for over 20 years, and he hasn't said anything like this before. With Mel Gibson, there were years of statements and winks and nods that hinted at his anti semitism.

The things he said were terrible, and I agree that nothing makes it ok to use that language in this day and age, or any age for that matter. But, just using those words in anger, during an argument with somebody that is saying things that were meant to hurt him, doesn't mean that he is at heart a racist.

toonces Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:57 PM EST

How come hardly ANYBODY comments on Afro-American Isaiah Washington's comments toward T.R. Knight and the pained, totally orchestrated Oprah-appearance?
Why? Because he's black and the creator/ producer of the most successful show on TV right now are both black, HE can get away with it? But this Kramer cannot be forgiven this?
Give me a break. Hypocrites. No, but let's give OJ another chance! His book may still get published and the show may still air, you know. I work in the field and it's true. They are still shopping it around.
Bastards!
Shonda- get Isaiah off that damn show. Grow some balls.

james Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:56 PM EST

get over it. Sure it was a terrible thing(s) to say, but geeze, he appologized, not get over it.

Jack Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:55 PM EST

I saw a video of the incident, and it was twenty times more offensive than I ever imagined it would be. Mr. Richard's tirade was offensive in the extreme. I will never buy any products in which he appears. He should fade into obscurity. This man makes Mel Gibson look like somebody's sweet old grandmother.

Anne Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:50 PM EST

Keri, I agree. Michael's apology, though rambling and bizarre, did appear to be heartfelt and sincere. I believe him more because he attempted it on his own rather than have some lackey write up a phony scripted apology.

Keri Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:48 PM EST

One thing I give Richards credit for: Owning it and apologizing personally nearly immediately.

This is the exact opposite of Mel Gibson, who only fessed up because it was finally leaked to the press, and had his press agent release a statement, not to mention blaming alcohol.

Both men's actions are disgraceful, but I buy Richards' apology more.

Frowny McBeard Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:41 PM EST

"However, I find it troubling that, given the recent spate of celebrity outbursts, Gibson and Richards were publicy lambasted for what they said, yet Isaiah Washington didn't even offer an apology for his use of the f word, and yet he seems to have gotten off scott free. I wonder why that is..."

Same reason R Kelly got a pass and Michael Jackson didn't-Jackson's record was panned and Kelly's was well received. Like R Kelly at the time, Grey's Anatomy is at the forefront of popular culture right now, and Seinfeld has been off the air for a long time. As to Richards, even if he was trying to push buttons and be "edgy", he failed miserably. Racist or not, he should be forced to eat crow for a long time.

Heather Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:22 PM EST

Why is it okay that he's racist, just because he's getting heckled? Think of it this way - the FIRST thing that comes out of his mouth after being heckled is the "n" word? That's his first response...and that's not racist? I was born and raised and still live in the South. I don't give a flying flip what color a person's skin is, you don't use that word in this country in this day and age. I don't care if it's claiming the word or trying to redefine it, there's always some schmo that is using it as a form of hate. There are no-brainer words - words that EVERYONE knows are hateful - and those no-brainer words are the ones that even folks with no brain know you just don't use. I don't give a flying flip about comedy - in this case I think it's fairly obvious that any "it was just failed comedy" excuses are just that, excuses. When a comedian (and not a politician) claims it was a sucky joke, it's more likely he just got caught letting the real him loose.

Lee Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:20 PM EST

Be more concerned that we have a racist U.S. Senator (Trent Lott, R-MS) who was just appointed as Minority Whip after heralding the segregationist policies of another racist U.S. Senator (the late Strom Thurmond). Michael Richards, while being an idiot and most likely a racist at heart, doesn't have any influence on your government.

jack Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:18 PM EST

Apology accepted on my end. He seemed sincere to me, I don't think he's racist. He was hurt by the heckling, and the general disinterest of the audience, and lashed out with words that he knew would hurt them. It doesn't make it right, but I don't think it makes him somebody like Mel Gibson either.

Jakeem Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:14 PM EST

I wonder what would have happened if Richards had stood onstage and sung, "Throw the Jew Down the Well."

Patricia Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 01:04 PM EST

After I read that Richards had apologized on Letterman, a Seinfeld episode came on and I tried to watch it. And really, I couldn't laugh because I couldn't shake the knowledge of what he had done, apology or not. It is almost impossible to "move on," "give the guy a break," or "be a true Seinfeld fan," now that I have been made aware of who he truly is. I cannot choose to un-know this about him and still support him. We have to let our consciences guide us, even in such a trivial arena like entertainment. I don't want this man making one more penny from royalties for Seinfeld, and if all I can do to help that along is to stop watching the show or not buy the DVD, then that's what I will do. The other three actors will (and have been able to) get by on other projects. Since these "stars" won't take accountability for their actions, we have to force it on them.

Toni Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:54 PM EST

If everyone who is racist started "building houses for the poor", there wouldn't be any trees left. (Sorry. I'm just so disgusted by all of the conflict.)

Michael Richards is a nutjob. Period.

By the way, if you really want to experience racism, take a gander at the posted responses to the original (comedy club) video on YouTube.com. I've never felt more violated in my life.

Toni
A (permed) Afro-American

Zeni Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:43 PM EST

I never watched Seinfeld anyways, always thought it sucked. His apology didn't seem forced, but it was the kind where you get caught slipping ahd feel embarrassed and like a doof and have to admit to yout wrongdoing.
He was an jack-A for doing it, but as a black person I will say as bad as it was people make mistakes.
Can we all really sit here and say that in anger, while playfully or not bickering with someone that we didn't accidently say something that someone opposite of us could find offensive? Telling a gay friend with a smile "you fag", etc.
One thing I will never understand from my people is how as soon as someone says the "N" words they are ready to bring Dr. King back to life, but rap retards say it every hour on the radio.
How about if that word becomes off limits to anyone with some common sense and respect. Blacks included.
I just noticed how he isn't getting as much bad flack on this as Mel Gibson was when he shouted rude words about Jews. Could it be that black people using the word make it less insulting? Or are blacks held in more lower regard than the other?
Whatever it is, he didn't seem drunk just incredibly stupid and there is really no need to go shouting that he needs "personal help".
He just needs to think before he speaks. And if he's still in L.A. not drive down Crenshaw anytime soon.

carole Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:43 PM EST

What is this 'help' everyone seems to get after they spout off what is undoubtedly what they really feel. And whether you accept an apology or not, you have to know that those words come from somewhere and it's not from the circumstance, it's from the person.

Alana Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:38 PM EST

Oh, for heaven's sake! The guy was being heckled, he responded off the top of his head in a way meant to show that he was 'tough,' could mix it up with the crowd, whatever. It came off wrong--not tough, but stupidly racist. (As all racism inherently is.) But to say that Michael Richards is a loser is wrong. The guy's work on Seinfeld proves that he is nothing less than a true original, YES, a comic genius. I just bet he's filled with rage these days. He's got all this talent inside him, and nowhere to express it. And finally, I would think that "personal work" MEANS getting help. I for one wish him a total recovery, and hope to see him someday in some venue worthy of his talent.

Tre Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:37 PM EST

"Robert Altman"? You want to acknowledge that man, start it in a different thread, and then I'LL go there and say, "Can we stop talking about this dead man? There's a war in Iraq and people still suffering here in the U.S. with unfair educational opportunities, housing, and crime."

Anyway, Richards' comments are indeed racist/discriminatory, and I agree with others that the idea of giving him air time on Letterman is both laughable and confusing. How about appearing on BET Nightly News; y'know, perhaps a platform patronized by the group he offended in particular? Or h3ll, do it on Oprah.

Tyler D Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:37 PM EST

I'm slightly scared that we're taking our cues on what to think of this situation from Jillian Barbarie. I also have no idea why our response to this incident has anything to do with whether or not we are fans of Seinfeld. Richards comments are fairly inexcusable simply on basic levels of humanity, and though I still would like to see a un-edited version of the events, I doubt he will be able to recover from this incident.

I think the one thing that's become clear in the past few days is that Michael Richards has some fairly significant psychological problems. I've always heard that he hasn't done very well, mentally, after Seinfeld ended. I doubt it helps to have everyone assume you're just the same baffoon you play on TV. It seems no one really took him as a serious actor, which, based on his comments during the commentary tracks on Seinfeld DVDs, is what he seems to think of himself as. I think he has become a very frustrated man who everyone expects to act a very specific way and he might have just reached the breaking point with that heckler. Someone I'm sure he would have attacked the heckler with a similar streak of vicious comments even if the heckler was overweight or Hispanic or Asian.

GeeMoney Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:33 PM EST

If someone is mean to you and the first words to come out of your mouth is something racist... you pretty much are a racist. Instead of saying something intelligently mean, he went right for something down right nasty.

He is a racist. 'Nuff said.

Nicole Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:33 PM EST

Excellent point, Dave. I saw the cast on Oprah and was waiting for them to discuss the incident (don't think it didn't go unnoticed that T.R. Knight and Isaiah Washington were seated right next to each other as a united front). How lame. Washington's explanation was that they have become "like a family" and that things get said amongst family members that are regrettable. Bulls--t. I can assure you that if my brother were gay, I would never resort to calling him a f-ggot no matter how angry I got. I am repulsed by these celebrities blaming racism, homophobia and the like on anything other than what they are - and worse, the public (at least in Washington's case) is lapping it up.

David Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:28 PM EST

Richards unleashed a tirade with the intention to do the most harm he thought possible at the hecklers. It was the wrong tirade to unleash and yes to think those things makes him racist; a racist? probably not. What he did was what all of us have done regrettably at some point in our life. We all hit the verbal A-Bomb button with the goal of decimating our target through our abuse, and then nine out of ten times we completely regret it (hopefully). He will and I believe he does regret this. Finally, racism being cried out in the world of showbiz is ridiculous. I'm still mad over the Kuffs/Juice movie poster scandal (look that one up!), and wondering who the next African-American actor will be to take on a demoralizing role for an Oscar.

Dave Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:26 PM EST

Wow, Karen, I don't think it was necessary to impugn the whole state of Montana. Nevertheless, I agree that what he said was atrocious, and he should rightly be condemned as a racist and a bigot. There is absolutely no justification for his actions, and he needs to be held accountable for them. He did apologize (no matter how genuine we think it may be), so I hope he and the rest of us can simply move on.

However, I find it troubling that, given the recent spate of celebrity outbursts, Gibson and Richards were publicy lambasted for what they said, yet Isaiah Washington didn't even offer an apology for his use of the f word, and yet he seems to have gotten off scott free. I wonder why that is...

Christopher Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:25 PM EST

Nathan, it should be talked about. Part of Richards' trouble seems to be that he's repressed on matters regarding to race-- that diatribe smacks of a long, closeted bigot under control and in need of release.

And I gotta challenge your assertion that only Arabs would have a problem with someone picking on Arabs. To me, reprehensible behavior isn't just wrong for some groups... it's wrong for all of us as a whole.

Hope I'm not alone there.

TK Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:22 PM EST

I'm no fan of Seinfeld or Michael Richards, but, to me, if someone says they'll never watch Seinfeld reruns again because of Riichards' racist tirade was never a real fan to begin with. I prefer to forgive this and move on. We all say stupid things from time to time. Lifes too short to dwell on what people say. I say forgive and forget about it. Get on with your lives already.

Gary Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:21 PM EST

You are right, Nicole. Nathan's comment says more about Nathan than it does about Michael Richards!

nathan Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:21 PM EST

Trust me, as disgusting as it is, it's true, people the world over are a bunch of hypocrites, we tend to choose our battles very well.

Nicole Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:18 PM EST

nathan, I think you're completely wrong with your comments. I don't care what race he was speaking of - the sentiment was disgusting and it wouldn't make it "better" if it was focused on a different group. I would hate to think that the public would be less outraged if it were aimed at someone other than the African-American community.

nathan Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:17 PM EST

OK, let's stop talking about this and pay some respect to Robert Altman, who has died at the age of 81, a true legend and master filmmaker.

Karen T. Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:12 PM EST

He is a bigot and a loser. What career has he had since Seinfeld? His TV show was a bomb and this was the first I've heard of him since then. I think he will quietly slink off and join the rest of the skinheads in Montana.

Dana Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:12 PM EST

In a few days, he will be forgotten and never heard from again. Anyone who employs him will not get my money or my attention and then he can dissapear into oblivion until the day he overdoses on something and we read about it in some corner page of some newspaper. someone will ask me, did you know this guy died, and I will say..."oh the rascist, well thank goodness for small favors."

EB Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:05 PM EST

Does anyone remember when he was on Fridays, the crappy SNL knockoff ABC did in the early eighties? He staged a fake fist fight with Andy Kaufman on live TV. This could be a performance art piece. It's either that or not being very funny has caused him to completely lose it. He's probably sick of people yelling "hey Kramer, fall down for us" when he goes out in public. We should call that Hootie syndrome in honor of the lead singer of Hootie and the Blowfish.

nathan Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:04 PM EST

The interesting thing is that if he would have been ranting about arabs and using all the bad names we've come up with since 9/11, nobody would care one bit, except of course the arabs.

Gary Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:04 PM EST

I've been following this story since early this morning (UK time) and find it unbelievable that a high-profile celebrity not only gets away with racist abuse, but is also afforded time on a prime-time TV show to 'apologise'.
Like Mel Gibson before him, the guy is a blatant racist. There is no apology, no excuse for coming out with abuse like that. It is not an 'accident'. That word, no matter how drunk I might get, would never spew from my mouth because it's just not something I ever say/think.
For these people to even believe that going on TV and sounding contrite wipes the slate clean is a nonsense. Quite simply these racist celebrities should be shunned by the very people who made them rich and famous. We live in a so-called civilised society and there is no place for hatemongers such as Richards or Gibson.
Yes, this may sound self-righteous, but I just get the feeling we are being too tolerant with the intolerant, if that makes sense.

Nicole Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 12:01 PM EST

Thank you, khia213 - I completely agree with you. I just can't understand those of you who are saying that he has "anger issues" or that he "might be a little racist". To blame his tirade on rage is a complete cop out. I have experienced rage, as have most people, and it does not manifest itself in racist comments unless the person is racist to begin with. Just like drinking doesn't (*cough* Mel Gibson *cough*).

I am a huge Seinfeld fan and I honestly think that trying to watch it will just feel tainted now. His apology really doesn't matter to me. He did what he did, and it's out there now. This is who he is. There's really nothing he can say to make up for it, and like khia213, unless he starts serious charity work or tours schools to speak out against racism and makes an honest effort to change his horrible view of the world, I just won't be able to respect or admire him ever again. Stick a fork in him - he's done (pun intended for those who witnessed his gross comments).

khia213 Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:53 AM EST

Forgive my ignorance, but if longing for the days when you lynched black people to solve a simple annoyance doesn't make you a racist, what does? What exactly do you have to do or say to be REALLY racist? Everything short of supplying the rope gets a pass?

Michael Richards is what he is. He can apologize for what he said but unless he starts building houses for the poor in New Orleans or working with HIV babies in the inner city to help him broadened his perspective, he still is a racist. Sorry is simply not enough to prove otherwise.

Idolatry Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:44 AM EST

My impression of Michael Richards has always been that he has a screw loose. His behavior of recent days has been embarrassing. I still think he seems more "odd" than anything else. And it won't affect my viewing of Seinfeld or how I watch it at all. Jerry Seinfeld has always struck me as a complete ass - so what? I don't watch the show to express love for the actors as people. I'm enjoying the perfomances and the writing.

Cole Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:43 AM EST

Basically the guy is unfunny, and was trying to deal with hecklers in a very extreme, outrageous way. It was stupid and poorly thought out, but it feels like almost anything goes in comedy clubs, on Howard Stern, on roasts etc, so it feels a little like this this being taken out of context because it got taped, but even still I can't see anyone defending it. It does feel a little disingenuous to act like no one has ever heard people use that language before (although I would agree no one should ever talk like that). The guy he yelled at also seems like a jerk, acting like it is totally normal to yell out during a performance and disrupt the show (not that I am defending Richard's response -- obviously it was inexcusable -- I am just saying that everyone involved seems jerky). So net of this is Richards is an idiot, generally unfunny and said a bunch of terrible stuff no normal person would tolerate. But he did apologize, and not sure what else he is supposed to do. Feels like people should just accept the apology, but realize he is an idiot going forward and move on. Not sure what refusing the apology does for anyone (or even what that means). The world is full of aholes -- this guy just happened to be on a hit show.

junior Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:38 AM EST

Rose, I with you. I didn't really care about him before this and I won't care about him afterward. As for "Seinfeld," there are probably plenty of bad people who are actors yet, I gotta watch the TV, so I'm not going to investigate who's bad and who's not and only watch the good people shows. He was an actor and Kramer is a character, so I will continue to watch because despite my tuning in, he's still gonna get checks. Can we just agree that when people are feeling the need to bring out their Rachael Tension, they do so at home with a bottle in hand yelling at the wall like everyone else (and don't act like you haven't said some horrible things when no one was around, we all have and there's nothing wrong with it if we grow and learn from our mistakes).

Jason Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:33 AM EST

Knee-jerk reactions aren't needed. We have all had meltdowns whether in private or in public, unfortunately for celebraties, their chances of ending up caught on video are much higher. I feel for Michael Richards, even though his words and actions cannot be condoned. The situation of being heckled obviously was the straw that broke the camel's back in this case. Richards is likely frustrated and depressed and self-loathing and maybe a little racist. The public shame is punishment enough and he will likely learn a lesson from this, as we all do when we make mistakes (or at least we should). Same goes for Mel.

Christopher Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:14 AM EST

It doesn't matter what race you are; you should be disturbed by what Richards said and the context in which he said it.

Forgiveness is up to the forgiver, and I don't think everyone can forgive a raqial tirade like that. I hope they can, and I will try, because I don't want to let his repressed hate hurt my love of Seinfeld or UHF... but I certainly understand others who say they can't enjoy those things now.

Weird to think that this might have long-lasting effects on Seinfeld syndication.

Nicole Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:13 AM EST

As an African American woman, I thinking EVERYONE, including my own people need to stop using the N word. One of the comics said that he was waiting for the punchline to make it ok. I feel if black comics never used it then maybe when people used it you would know the context and not question if it is a joke. It is never a joke of a word especially when spoken in anger.

matt Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:13 AM EST

Richards was way out of line that night. Is he racist? I'm not sure, but his behavior certainly was. He should be ashamed of himself. I believe his apology was sincere, but what he did is not easy to forget.

ceej Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:12 AM EST

His very use of the terms "Afro-American" and "the" before blacks and Hispanics show me that not only is his apology insincere it, but that he's stupid too

chris Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:04 AM EST

The thing about the afro -americans was bad. I am black and my roomate is white, what really made our jaws hit the floor, what mr. riichards reference to "the blacks" and "the hispansics". I have to concur with my roomate on this one, only really racists peeople say stuff like "the blacks" or "the whites" in the way mr richards did. I ALSO agree that was a very uncomfortable apology, I will no longer mock atheletes who use prepared apologies, i realize now they aren't cowards, they are just using there brains and resources.

Nicole Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:02 AM EST

I am appalled that David Letterman offered a venue for Michael and Jerry to plug their dvd and half heartedly apoligize for Michael showing us who he is.
I feel sorry for Michael. He is a racist who cannot be himself in public. If he showed who he really was years ago, he would not be the millionaire he is today. It must be tough for him to repress his true self in order to be a successful actor. You could see it burning his soul last night apologizing. I am sure he hates that he cannot be a popular actor and bigot at the same time.
David was trying to help him explain which disappoints me. I like Dave and he should have let him have it instead of playing softball with him.
Michael Richards is an angry racist and should be shunned by Hollywood and America.

Dee Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 11:00 AM EST

The man is racist plan and simple. No apology will change what he really feels deep down. His rage just brought out his true feelings. It would be nice for all the racist to come out so I can stop supporting them and dealing with them on personal levels. I don't know why these people revel in how evil they are. The only people that will forgive him or want to give him a chance are people like him who use these words behind close doors but be all friendly like they aren't racist. There's also the ones who want to fit in so bad that they can't figure out when they have been insulted or lied to.

I used to watch his show all the time. Never again will I support anything Seinfeld.

Ron Mexio Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:48 AM EST

There is nothing a black celebrity can say, especially at a comedy club, that can get he/she is any kind of trouble like richards. OJ killed two white people and got a book deal!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (it will eventually be released despite the cancellation of the tv special)

James Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:47 AM EST

Back when Seinfeld was in its heyday, I was at a phone booth (remember those?) trying to console a friend. It was in a secluded corner of a glorified strip mall in Studio City, California, when to my surprise, here comes Michael Richards walking straight towards me. There was nobody else around. I am a Black man, for the record. I asked my friend to hold, covered the receiver and said hello. He responded, something like, "hey, what, are you doing a deal?" Then, a look of shock came over his face and he threw up a peace sign and ducked around a corner. All these years, I felt guilty for assuming he was making a racist remark about a Black man at a phone booth. Maybe he meant a Hollywood deal. Maybe. But now...

Rose Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:45 AM EST

He wasn't a big star before this and he won't be a big star after this. I think we should all just let it go now and personally, I think he sounded like he was truly sorry. It must be very humiliating to suffer a nervous breakdown on stage, now on video, for the world to see. That doesn't excuse the vicous, racist things he said, but it should be taken in the context of watching a man just lose his mind in public.

If you liked Seinfeld before, you should keep watching it, because if our ability to enjoy entertainment were dependent on the performers being decent people, we would probably never be able to watch a movie, tv show, or listen to any music again!

Middento Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:44 AM EST

I had not seen the tirade (nor the apology) until now. The stand-up routine is bizarre, reprehensible and pointedly unfunny -- and I have to say that both the apology and the fact that it was on Letterman is almost just as bizarre.

I don't usually turn away from Seinfeld and, quite honestly, I probably won't now. (His character was never my favorite anyway -- I was more a fan of Julia Louis-Dreyfuss.) Then again, I'm not such a huge fan that I watched the show much anyway. That said, I can't imagine patronizing anything else he does following this. I agree with Honeybee below that the man needs to quietly go away.

DOM Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:43 AM EST

I JUST HEARD ON THE RADIO WHEN HE SAID THE N WORD MANY TIMES, I DON'T FEEL THAT HIS APOLOGY WILL BE ACCEPTED. I AM A FAN OF SEINFELD BUT NOW L'M NOT SURE I WILL BE WATCHING IT..

Ed Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:43 AM EST

I watched the apology and I couldn't help but laugh. When Richards used the word, "Afro American" I think he lost his audience. That term is used usually during a comedy skit and with Richards useing his comedy face, it didn't go over too well.
As Jillian Barbarie said on Good Day L.A this morning, "there is a lot of rage inside that man and you don't say those things unless you're a racist."

Howard Tue, Nov 21, 2006 at 10:39 AM EST

There is no truth to the rumor that Michael Richards is starring in Mel Gibson's remake of "Birth of a Nation".

Seriously, though: there was an interesting comment from Paul Rodriguez, who owns the Laugh Factory in LA (I don't have the exact quote): He said that he was waiting for a punch line that would justify that kind of reprehensible language, but none came. If he had pulled off any kind of joke, this would be a non-story. But instead, we're talking about a comedic actor exposing himself as a bigot.

Laura, what is the difference between how this is being handled vs. Mel Gibson? Both are being publicly lambasted; there are two key differences: Gibson was arrested for what should have been a felony, and he also had more of an active career. Michael Richards doesn't ever have to work again (and given the last movie he was in, Trial and Error, and his post-Seinfeld sitcom, that might not be such a bad idea), and if this hadn't happened, our only exposure to him would be through syndication and DVDs. This story probably will be gone faster since Richards is out of the public eye.