More Adam Lambert shows cancelled over AMA gay antics
Gay singer Adam Lambert, who provoked controversy at the American Music Awards by kissing a man, has had more TV shows cancelled.
More than 1,500 US viewers complained over a gay kiss and simulated oral sex in his performance last month.
Following the storm, his appearance on Good Morning America was cancelled.
The singer has now been told he will not be appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live and ABC’s New Years Rockin’ Eve show.
On Wednesday, Lambert tweeted: “Yes, sadly friends, ABC has cancelled my appearances on Kimmel and NYE. Don’t blame them. It’s the FCC heat.”
The FCC is the US television’s industry watchdog, which the complaints were made to. It has the power to fine television networks.
Far from condemning ABC for cancelling the appearances, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) has supported the network.
In a joint statement from the two organisations, GLAAD’s president Jarrett Barrios said: “It would appear that the kiss between Adam Lambert and his keyboardist did not factor into ABC’s decision.
“ABC has a history of positive gay and transgender inclusion that includes featuring kisses between gay and lesbian couples on-air.”
A statement from ABC said: “Given the live nature of the American Music Awards, Adam Lambert’s performance, which differed greatly from his rehearsal, caught many, including the network, off guard.
“This is not a question of Lambert’s sexual orientation. As is evidenced by GLAAD’s media report card, ABC is at the forefront of positive gay and lesbian portrayal on television. We welcome openly gay performers and look forward to continuing our great work within the LGBT community.”
Following the AMA performance, Lambert said he was “just in the moment” and criticised double standards which allowed straight female performers to put on highly sexual shows.
