Reza Aslan leaving CNN after Donald Trump comments draw ire
In a statement, the network had the following to say about their decision to dismiss the Believer with Reza Aslan host after he referred to the President as a “piece of s–t” over the recent comments he made about his travel ban:
“CNN has decided to not move forward with production on the acquired series Believer with Reza Aslan. We wish Reza and his production team all the best.”
Aslan had already apologized for the statement that he made on the subject, but he did end up issuing a further statement explaining some of his thoughts on the subject further:
“Obviously I am very disappointed in this decision. ‘Believer’ means a great deal to me and to the countless viewers it’s reached. Its message of religious tolerance and exploration is extremely important right now. I am deeply grateful to CNN for giving me the opportunity to launch the show and to amplify my voice on their network. I am especially grateful to the legion of people within the Turner organization who worked so hard to make the show a hit series. However, in these politically charged times, the tenor of our nation’s discourse has become complicated, and I recognize that CNN needs to protect its brand as an unbiased news outlet. Similarly, I need to honor my voice. I am not a journalist. I am a social commentator and scholar. And so I agree with CNN that it is best that we part ways. I look forward to partnering with another platform in the future to continue to spread my message. I wish CNN all the best.”
Ultimately, this decision seems to be part of a new course of action for CNN after they waited too long to announce their dismissal of Griffin: Get away from controversy as quickly as possible. After all, they already have it hard enough when it comes to people criticizing them for their reporting, even when it is unbiased.
What do you think about Aslan’s departure, and do you feel as though it was merited? Be sure to sound off with a comment. (Photo: CNN.)