L-A Radio: Nick Cannon Taking Time-Off From Radio Shows

Nick Cannon

Nick Cannon has apologized again to the Jewish community after drawing sharp criticism this week for a podcast conversation with former Public Enemy rapper Richard Griffin, a.k.a. Professor Griff. And he has the support of at least one of his employers, Fox.

First and foremost I extend my deepest and most sincere apologies to my Jewish sisters and brothers for the hurtful and divisive words that came out of my mouth during my interview with Richard Griffin.

— Nick Cannon (@NickCannon) July 16, 2020

Cannon’s apology comes shortly after ViacomCBS cut ties with him Tuesday over the anti-Semitic comments he made during the controversial episode of “Cannon’s Class.” Fox, however, has opted to “move forward” with Cannon as host of the absurdist competition program “The Masked Singer.”

During the divisive podcast installment, which debuted a couple weeks ago, Cannon called Black people “the true Hebrews” and discussed anti-Semitic conspiracy theories with Griffin, who was kicked out of Public Enemy in 1989 over anti-Jewish remarks. Cannon and Griffin are both Black.

After ViacomCBS announced it was parting ways with Cannon, the veteran TV host lashed out at the media conglomerate on Facebook Wednesday morning and demanded an apology, as well as “full ownership of my billion dollar ‘Wild ‘N Out’ brand that I created.”

In addition to “The Masked Singer,” Cannon also hosts a morning radio show on Los Angeles’ KPWR Power 106 station, which is owned by Meruelo Media.  Cannon's morning show is also syndicated nationally by Skyview Networks.  It was revealed Thursday that Cannon would be taking an open-end time off from both shows.

Meanwhile Skyview has released the following statement:

"Nick Cannon has begun a period of self-reflection to address the pain he caused, and while we recognize his apology, this time is needed to establish an action plan towards real change and advocacy. During this period, production of the Nick Cannon Radio show will cease. Skyview Networks values all communities and faiths and we expect all programs and personalities we syndicate to adhere to these principles."