Why is everyone so shocked? This was bound to happen
It was interesting to watch the media coverage of Don Imus over the past few days. If you have been living on the moon, here’s a brief update. Imus made profoundly offensive remarks on his nationally syndicated radio show in reference to the Rutgers University women’s basketball team. Before you ask, the closest radio station that carries the program is Bakersfield’s KGEO, AM 1230.
Most covering the story seemed shocked that Imus would make such comments. They obviously don’t listen. Imus says profoundly stupid things all the time.
He says he’s a nice man who just said something bad. Imus must not listen to himself. He does some good charity work, but that doesn’t make up for a that kind of personality that comes across like eating glass.
The only thing that shocks me is that it has taken this long for Imus to not only stick his foot in his mouth, but shove his leg all the way in. He’s been a train wreck waiting to happen.
He finally said enough to catch everyone’s attention. MSNBC has suspended simulcasting the syndicated “Imus in the Morning” radio program for two weeks. Executives with NBC news said this “comes after careful consideration in the days since his racist, abhorrent comments were made.”
Don Imus has apologized. Well, duh. And, he has not run from the issue. That was the smart thing to do. Is that enough? I doubt it. There are too many people who want a pound of flesh. A suspension is only about an ounce of punishment.
A statement from NBC news also says “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.”
If Imus does come back, will he Imus change? Sure, at least for awhile. But, you can count on this not being the last time Imus will face such a backlash — unless he retires.