More moves are being made in Hollywood to address what many feel are problematic episodes on shows featuring Blackface. Recently, 30 Rock has axed four episodes of the series from streaming services after review, citing Blackface as being an issue. Scrubs followed suit and also removed three Blackface episodes, and it looks as if The Office and Community are making a few changes, as well.
The Office creator Greg Daniels has issued a statement about the hit series's "Dwight Christmas" episode that features Blackface. “‘The Office’ is about a group of people trying to work together with mutual respect despite the inappropriate actions of their boss and assistant manager,” said Daniels. “The show employed satire to expose unacceptable behavior and deliver a message of inclusion. Today we cut a shot of an actor wearing blackface that was used to criticize a specific racist European practice. Blackface is unacceptable and making the point so graphically is hurtful and wrong. I am sorry for the pain that caused.”
A spokesperson for Community stated that the "Advanced Dungeons & Dragons" episode would be removed as it features actor Ken Jeong's character in dark makeup as a "dark elf. “We support the decision to remove the episode,” the spokesperson reportedly said.
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