I’m not going to editorialize (okay, not much) about the hysteria (from both sides) about the Phil Robertson interview in GQ. By the way, I read it so that I would know what I was talking about, did you?
Here’s the bottom line: Phil Robertson has the right to say whatever he wants. A&E has the right to hire or fire whomever they want. And none of us have a right to not be offended.
Shaun said it best over at Bearing Drift. Seriously — if the opinions of others offends you? Grow up and get a damn life, and be a bit more secure in your own belief system.
But, while the Interwebz continue to be ablaze about this story, did you know these things were happening?
- 500 People died this week in South Sudan. Read about it at CNN.
- North Korea has threatened to attack South Korea. Read about it at Australia Network News.
- The ceiling of London’s Apollo Theatre collapsed, injuring some 76 people. Via CNN.
- Some 40 million credit and debit card users had their account information stolen through a data breach at Target. Via Boston.com.
And for those offended by what Phil said, maybe consider what’s happening in places where you can get more than your feelings hurt:
- A spokeswoman for Uganda’s parliament says lawmakers have passed a long-shelved law that punishes “aggravated homosexuality” with life imprisonment. Via USAToday.
Look, by all means, if you’re pro-Robertson or anti-Robertson, fire off your cards and letters to A&E. Just remember, it’s a business decision for them. It’s all about viewers.
But maybe do it with a little perspective on what’s really important.