Why did major US newspapers drop the Dilbert comic strip?

Question

Accepted Answer

Major US Newspapers Ceased Publication of Dilbert Comic Strip Due to Creator's Racist Remarks

Numerous major US newspapers have discontinued the publication of the Dilbert comic strip following racist comments made by its creator, Scott Adams, during a YouTube livestream. Adams' remarks, which included describing Black Americans as a "hate group" and advising white Americans to distance themselves from Black people, prompted swift action from media outlets. This decision reflects a broader stance against espousing racism, as articulated by editors and publishers.
Creator's Racist Remarks Sparked Controversy

Scott Adams made his controversial statements on February 22, responding to a poll that suggested a portion of Black Americans did not believe it was acceptable to be white. Adams interpreted this poll data to declare that "nearly half of all Blacks are not OK with white people... that’s a hate group," and stated he wanted "nothing to do with them." These comments quickly generated significant backlash on social media, leading to widespread calls for publishers to cease carrying his work.
Prominent Newspapers Announced Discontinuation

In the wake of the controversy, multiple newspapers, including the Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and newspapers affiliated with USA Today, announced on February 24 and 25 that they would no longer feature Dilbert. The editor of The Plain Dealer explicitly stated that the newspaper does not support racism and that the decision was straightforward. The Los Angeles Times further noted that it had previously removed four Dilbert cartoons in recent months for violating the newspaper's standards.
Creator Acknowledged Consequences and Expected Cancellation

Scott Adams himself acknowledged the repercussions of his statements. On his YouTube channel, he confirmed that his comic was being dropped and anticipated significant financial losses and reputational damage. Adams stated that he expected to be "mostly cancelled" by the following Monday, with most of his income disappearing, and that his reputation would be "destroyed for the rest of my life."

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why did major US newspapers drop the Dilbert comic strip?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends