We talked about the petition to get Johnny Weir on Stars on Ice the other day. Today, there is news that a Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) blogger is accusing the tour of not hiring Weir because he is "too gay."
Upon hearing that Stars on Ice decided not to offer Weir a spot because he is not "family friendly" (NOTE: Does anyone know where this quote came from? I have read it attributed to the tour and its sponsors, but I don't have the exact quote and I really want to find the origin), GLAAD blogger Lauren Mattias has responded:
To say that Weir is "not family friendly" would be a clear jab at his perceived sexual orientation. Weir is extremely involved with his family. He is putting his younger brother through college, and supports the family financially because his father’s disability prohibits him from working. Weir’s dedication to his family can be clearly documented in the Sundance series, Be Good Johnny Weir, which follows him and his family and friends through his life and career as a championship skater.
Weir responded to the controversy on Access Hollywood:
“I understand I am a little outrageous but I wish I could perform for the fans,” he continued. But Johnny has a possible backup plan with another irreverent performer. “Maybe right now, just artistically and creatively, I’d love to have my own show, with musical acts, like maybe getting Lady Gaga!” he said. I would love to see him Stars on Ice. Although I am hoping this Lady Gaga collaboration comes to life at some point. On the other hand, it probably hurts American spectators more than it hurts Weir for him not to be on Stars on Ice. He often participates in shows abroad and rumor has it they pay more. And those fans get to see him, but we don't!
UPDATED:
According to the Los Angeles Times, Stars on Ice denies that sexual orientation is the reason that Weir has been excluded.
"We are disappointed that there is untrue and inaccurate information being disseminated," Stars, which is sponsored by Smucker's, said in a statement. "Please be assured that the 'gender identity and sexual orientation' of cast members has never been a consideration in the selection of tour performers."
The article goes on:
"While Stars on Ice wishes it could accommodate many more talented skaters as part of our cast, the fact is we cannot sign every skater," the Stars statement said.
For whatever reason Stars decided not to invite Weir to perform, I find it an odd business choice. When I have gone in recent years, there have been a very high number of seats that remain unsold and I'd imagine Weir is a definite draw.
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