Gabrielle Union Reportedly Fired From ‘America’s Got Talent’ For Speaking Out on Racial Issues

According to BET, actress Gabrielle Union has been fired from the NBC show, America’s Got Talent.

After making several complaints to executives at NBC regarding some racial issues, it’s being reported that Union won’t be returning to the popular variety show in January.

“‘America’s Got Talent’ has a long history of inclusivity and diversity in both our talent and the acts championed by the show,” NBC and series producer Fremantle said in a joint statement. “The judging and host line-up has been regularly refreshed over the years and that is one of the reasons for AGT’s enduring popularity. NBC and the producers take any issues on set seriously.”

Union took to Twitter to give thanks to all the support she has been receiving from fans and fellow celebrities as well.

So many tears, so much gratitude. THANK YOU! Just when you feel lost, adrift, alone… you got me up off the ground. Humbled and thankful, forever ❤

— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) November 28, 2019

Even Union’s husband, Dwyane Wade, chimed in with his thoughts regarding her job loss on his Twitter account.

So when i got the news that my wife was being fired—my first question was obviously why!? Iam still waiting on a good answer to that question. But if anyone knows @itsgabrielleu or have heard of her you know she’s an advocate for our community and culture.

— DWade (@DwyaneWade) November 27, 2019

Union has been getting a lot of public support and even a Democratic presidential candidate, Julian Castro, commented via his Twitter account, “Corporate America tells employees and consumers they take racism and sexism seriously. But often the person reporting the problem is hurt by management. Kudos to @itsgabrielleu0 for having the courage to speak out. Still waiting for answers from @nbc“

Actress Ellen Pompeo chimed in through her Twitter account, “It’s unfortunate that @nbc the same network that protected disgusting men like Matt Lauer and punished women for speaking out or not putting up with it…has not changed their practices or culture. I support @itsgabrielleu commitment to speaking up to injustice. It takes courage”

Debra Messing, of Will & Grace fame, was just as vocal with her support, in spite of her starring in three shows (Will & Grace, Smash, and The Mysteries of Laura) on the peacock network. Her tweet stated, “environment is inconvenient when there is a huge money making machine that is involved. It is cowardice, greed, and protection of the status quo revealed. Being “hands off,” is inexcusable and reflects a laissez faire attitude toward systemic racism and sexism.@itsgabrielleu”