The big shots over at A&E have decided to bench Phil Robertson from his family’s mega-hit of a show. It seems they couldn’t let his remarks about homosexuality sharing similarities with bestiality go. And why should they? Many people were offended after being compared to a deviant that abuses animals.
“We are extremely disappointed to have read Phil Robertson’s comments in GQ, which are based on his own personal beliefs and are not reflected in the series Duck Dynasty,” says the network in a statement.
It adds, “His personal views in no way reflect those of A+E Networks, who have always been strong supporters and champions of the LGBT community. The network has placed Phil under hiatus from filming indefinitely.”
But here’s where I might offend – Phil is of a different mindset and those that watch the show have never seen him act aggressively towards anyone else for disagreeing with him so why don’t we just leave him alone. Suspending him is not going to change his mind because the whole not forcing your opinions on anyone works both ways. Please remember that! Phil will be Phil whether we like him or not. Hearing this: “It seems like, to me, a vagina — as a man — would be more desirable than a man’s anus. That’s just me. I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I’m saying? But hey, sin: It’s not logical, my man. It’s just not logical,” he said – while upsetting and I don’t wish to take away from people’s rightful anger but I also would like to remind everyone about the time frame he’s coming from.
How many grandmothers and grandfathers are open to talking about sex much less addressing the LGBT community. I grew up with a grandmother that hides behind the bible for everything. It’s doubful if I will ever agree with half of things she believes and takes as a fact. I find her stance wrong and yet I will never say that to her face. Why? If they aren’t hurting anyone and they can’t be retaught then leave them be.
That may not be the right answer for everyone but its the way of peace. If you don’t like him anymore then switch channels. Don’t analyze his words always looking for more “evidence” that he’s a horrible person. At the end of the day he has a right to say whatever he feels and A&E hired him with full knowledge of that. Don’t bother with your apologies Phil.