ViacomCBS has shot Wild ‘n Out presenter Nick Cannon about the anti-Semitic comments he made in an episode of his podcast / YouTube series, Cannon class.
In a statement to TVLine, a representative of the conglomerate said: “ViacomCBS condemns intolerance of any kind and we strongly denounce all forms of anti-Semitism. We talked to Nick Cannon about an episode from his podcast. Cannon class on YouTube, which promoted hate speech and spread anti-Semitic conspiracy theories. While we support ongoing education and dialogue in the fight against bigotry, we are deeply concerned that Nick has not recognized or apologized for perpetuating anti-Semitism, and we are ending our relationship with him. We are committed to improving our response to incidents of anti-Semitism, racism and intolerance. ViacomCBS will have more announcements about our efforts to combat hate of all kinds. “
In an episode of Cannon class Posted on YouTube last month, Cannon alluded to several prominent anti-Semitic conspiracy theories, including “the Rothschilds, central banking” and “the bloodlines that control everything, even outside the United States.” He also insisted that he could not be anti-Semitic and asked blacks to claim the term “Semitic”: “You cannot be anti-Semitic when we are Semitic people … That is our birthright.” We are the true Hebrews. “
After his comments emerged over the weekend, Cannon defended himself in a statement on his Facebook page. “I am an advocate for people’s voices to be heard openly, fairly and honestly,” he wrote. “In today’s conversation about anti-racism and social justice, I believe that everyone, including myself, should continue to educate each other and embrace awkward conversations; is the only way that all to get better. I encourage a healthier dialogue and welcome any expert, clergy, or spokesperson to any of my platforms to hold me accountable and correct me in any statements I have made that have been projected as negative. Until then, I take responsibility for this moment and take full responsibility because My intentions are only to show that, as a beautiful human species, we have many more things in common than differences. “
Last year, comedy improv competition series Wild ‘n Out , Which was released on MTV before moving on to sister cable VH1, was renewed for three more seasons (90 episodes total). Cannon also houses Fox’s The masked singer.