NBC exec says network did not discriminate against Jack Osbourne
NBC Entertainment Chairman Bob Greenblatt responded to claims by Sharon Osbourne that her son Jack was fired from Stars Earn Stripes after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Osbourne was reportedly so enraged by the decision that she left her position as judge on America’s Got Talent.
“First, we have the deepest affection for Sharon Osbourne and consider her to be part of the NBC family,” Greenblatt said in a statement. “And our hearts go out to her, Ozzy, Jack and his family at this time. We hold medical information in strict confidence and therefore cannot comment specifically about Jack, but as a company that cares deeply about the health and safety of everyone on our shows — especially one like Stars Earn Stripes that requires dangerous water stunts, strenuous physical activity, and uses live ammunition — we required all potential participants to undergo medical vetting to ensure that they could safely participate. Although we did not ask Jack to participate in the competition, we were able to offer him two substantial alternative roles on the show, both of which he declined. This network does not discriminate on any basis.”
On Monday, a newspaper reported that Jack Osbourne was in talks to participate in the NBC reality show that features celebrities competing in military-like events. The story claimed that NBC cut off communication with Jack Osbourne after his diagnosis — which then prompted his mom to leave her six-year gig on the talent show.
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