Gareth Cliff fired as Idols judge
Gareth Cliff has been removed as a judge from Idols SA.
WHILE social media continues to simmer over racial tension, Gareth Cliff was let go from his position as Idols SA judge amidst the racial tension and his controversial tweet over the weekend.
“Gareth Cliff will not be part of the judging panel for Idols SA Season 12, which is due to commence with countrywide auditions at the end of January 2016,” M-Net announced in a statement on Friday.
M-Net thanked Cliff for the critical role he had played in seeking out and developing new talent over the years and for contributing to the success of the show to date.
A second batch of Idols SA viewers took to social media to voice their displeasure with the sacking of Cliff just a week after initial calls on social media to boycott the 12th season of the show if Cliff remained as a judge.
In a second statement on Saturday, Mnet explained why Cliff would not be part of the Season 12 judging panel.
“Over the last few months following Unathi’s indiscretions on social media, we have been in discussions with our judges, presenters and talent to sensitise them to the risks of using social media. All the Idols SA judges were reminded that M-Net holds all brand ambassadors and employees to the highest standards in our ongoing efforts to promote and build a modern and inclusive South Africa.
“Unfortunately we then had to deal with Somizi’s inappropriate comments and following the latest issue, we have now implemented a zero tolerance policy for all social media posts that go against the spirit of nation-building. This policy will apply to everyone associated with our brands going forward.
“We do not believe that Gareth is a racist but his response showed a lack of empathy for our history and it is important to differentiate between freedom of speech and hate speech. Penny Sparrow’s comments were hateful. Hate speech is not applicable with regard to freedom of speech.”
