Ted Danson’s Apology for Blackface Performance
Actor Ted Danson has expressed regret for his blackface performance during a roast of his then-girlfriend Whoopi Goldberg back in 1993. Danson shared his thoughts on W. Kamau Bell’s podcast, saying he felt a responsibility to “protect” Goldberg over the years.
He reflected on the situation, stating, “Probably the last thing she wants is to be in this position again.” Danson elaborated, saying it wasn’t an excuse but an explanation of his mindset at the time. “I want to talk about this and apologize forever,” he noted, recognizing that his actions might have hurt others. He remarked, “Someone might go on the Internet today and feel betrayed or angry. And I did it.”
Danson mentioned that his relationship with Goldberg was nearing its end and that she had trouble moving past the roast at the Friars Club. He recounted his thoughts during the performance, saying he viewed Goldberg as “the most outrageously funny black woman in the world” and felt pressure to entertain. He decided to take a theatrical approach, which he admitted didn’t translate well.
He thought about black comedians and how he believed he could say outrageous things if he were in their shoes. Additionally, Danson wanted to address some harsh criticisms regarding his relationship with Goldberg, suggesting that some perceived it as purely physical. “It wasn’t because they liked each other,” he stated, reflecting on misunderstandings surrounding their bond.
Despite rehearsing for months, Danson’s performance seemed to resonate poorly with much of the audience. “Twenty percent got it and thought it was cool. Thirty percent hated it, and fifty percent didn’t understand at all and hated it too. I hated it,” he said, admitting he kept going despite the backlash.
He anticipated that the performance would take place indoors, but the controversy had already escalated by the time the event concluded. “I am forever sorry,” Danson stated, acknowledging that intentions don’t matter as much as the impact on others. He added, “It was wrong and it hurt,” recognizing the arrogance in thinking he had something meaningful to contribute.
This reconnects to a broader context of Hollywood’s past, where moments like these are now under scrutiny. In 2020, Howard Stern faced backlash for a leaked clip showing him in blackface while imitating Danson’s performance, illustrating how these issues continue to persist in public discourse.
