Tenacious D’s Kyle Gass has broken his silence on the controversy that derailed the band’s Australian tour in 2024, insisting that the duo will rise again despite the backlash.
The Sydney Incident
The fallout began during Tenacious D’s Sydney concert in July 2024, which coincided with Gass’ 64th birthday. When Jack Black presented him with a cake and asked him to make a wish, Gass quipped, “Don’t miss Trump next time,” referencing the attempted assassination of then–U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump. While the audience laughed, the internet reacted with outrage.
The remark quickly went viral, sparking widespread condemnation. The band canceled the remainder of their Australian and New Zealand tour, Jack Black announced all creative plans were “on hold,” and Gass was dropped by his agent. The controversy even reached Australian politics, with Senator Ralph Babet calling for the band’s deportation.
Gass Reflects and Apologizes
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Gass admitted the comment was a mistake. “It was a terrible judgment,” he said. “Once it was picked up, it just got worse and worse. It was a Defcon 2 for sure in the camp. And I did it. It was my f**k-up.”
He has since issued a public apology, calling the joke “highly inappropriate, dangerous, and a terrible mistake.” Gass acknowledged that while the remark drew laughter in the room, it was “too soon” and deeply regrettable.
Jack Black and the Duo’s Partnership
The incident also strained Gass’ decades-long partnership with Jack Black. Black distanced himself publicly, but Gass described their relationship as “like a marriage,” with ups and downs. “You try to understand your partner,” he explained.
Behind the scenes, the pair reconciled and quietly resumed creative work. In late 2025, Tenacious D contributed a cover of REO Speedwagon’s Keep On Loving You to Good Music To Lift Los Angeles, a benefit compilation supporting wildfire relief efforts.
What’s Next for Tenacious D
Although no new tour dates or album announcements have been made, Gass expressed confidence in the band’s future. “We’re gonna come back,” he said. “It’s gonna be bigger than Oasis.” Whether Australia will see a redemption tour remains uncertain, but fans can expect Tenacious D’s trademark mix of humor, resilience, and rock theatrics to return in some form.
