Imus Fallout
by Michael
I decided not to get caught up in this issue of whether Imus should be fired or not since that seemed obvious. But now that the inevitable has happened, the analysis has begun. I have a couple of issues with this particular article.
First, let me point out that Justin Timberlink bared Janet Jackson's breast when he ripped her garment off. I've never understood why she has borne the full brunt of the blame for that incident. I wonder what would have happened if she had ripped Timperlink's pants off and snagged his underwear at the same time. Would people have blamed Timberlink for baring his penis? Or would they have blamed Jackson for ripping his pants off?
Second, this idea of a tipping point for less tolerance of hate speech in the media is just a bunch of bunk. I don't see anyone banning Ann Coulter from the air, and some of the things she's said makes Imus' comment look tame in comparison.
Let's be realistic. CBS didn't fire Imus because of some moral compulsion. They fired him because he had become a financial liability. His replacement may be a little tamer for a while, but it won't be long before the new host starts pushing the envelope of acceptability to garner higher ratings.
As for Imus. He'll apologize again, check into rehab, and be back on the air before you know it.
Posted under Read the Lede on Friday, April 13th, 2007 at 14:58
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