MSNBC, CBS Radio suspend Imus for two weeks
MSNBC will suspend morning simulcasts of the Imus in the Morning radio program beginning Monday April 16, following a remark made by host Don Imus on the program last Wednesday that has been blasted as racist.
CBS Radio, which airs the program, will also suspend the disc jockey for two weeks.
On last Wednesday's program, Imus referred to the players of the Rutger's women's basketball team as "nappy-headed hos."
NBC News President Steve Capus released the following statement Monday:
"Beginning Monday, April 16, MSNBC will suspend simulcasting the syndicated 'Imus in the Morning' radio program for two weeks. This comes after careful consideration in the days since his racist, abhorrent comments were made. Don Imus has expressed profound regret and embarrassment and has made a commitment to listen to all of those who have raised legitimate expressions of outrage. In addition, his dedication — in his words — to change the discourse on his program moving forward, has confirmed for us that this action is appropriate. Our future relationship with Imus is contingent on his ability to live up to his word."
CBS Radio released a statement saying that they were disappointed with the actions of the host, and would "continue to monitor the program's content going forward."
MSNBC and CBS said both pledged to air a previously scheduled "radiothon" on Thursday and Friday in support of the Tomorrow's Children's Fund, the CJ Foundation for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome research and the Imus Ranch.
Don Imus was a guest today on the Al Sharpton Show, where he said he was "embarrassed" by his remarks and claimed he was "trying to be funny," though he said that was not an excuse.
"The meeting prompted a series of testy exchanges, and Imus grew visibly frustrated at times," according to an Associated Press report. "During one exchange, Imus said he can't win with 'you people.' Sharpton was clearly irritated by that remark."
More about MSNBC's decision is available here.
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