Evidently comparing the president of the United States with one of history’s most infamous despots is a no-no at ESPN. Just ask Hank Williams Jr.
While appearing via satellite on Fox News’ “Fox & Friends” Monday, Williams expressed his opinion on President Obama’s golf match with Speaker Of The House John Boehner, calling it “one of the biggest political mistakes ever.”
But Bocephus didn’t stop there. Furthering his analysis, the country singer told the “Fox & Friends” crew that the match “would be like Hitler playing golf with (Israeli leader) Benjamin Netanyahu,” and followed the remark by calling Obama and Vice President Biden “the enemy.”
By late afternoon ESPN had dropped William’s opening for “Monday Night Football.” Entering damage-control mode, Williams issued a statement saying he “always respected the office of the president,” and followed it up the next day with an apology.
But now it looks as if Williams won’t be getting any more royalties from ESPN’s use of his “Are You Ready For Some Football?” opening for the cable sports channel’s “Monday Night Football” telecast. However, depending on who you want to believe, ESPN either fired Williams or the country artist decided on his own that it was time to go.
From ESPN: “We have decided to part ways with Hank Williams Jr. We appreciate his contributions over the past years. The success of Monday Night Football has always been about the games and that will continue.”
But in a statement given to the Associated Press, Williams described the parting a little differently.
“After reading hundreds of emails, I have made MY decision. By pulling my opening Oct. 3, You (ESPN) stepped on the Toes of The First Amendment Freedom of Speech, so therefore Me, My Song and All My Rowdy Friends are OUT OF HERE. It’s been a great run.”