Hank Williams Jr’s interview on Fox comparing President Obama to Hitler caused ESPN to pull Williams’ opening number from the broadcast on October 3, 2011. William Jr’s song had kicked off Monday night football games since 1991, and now word officially comes from ESPN that he’ll no longer be a part of the show:
“We have decided to part ways with Hank Williams, Jr. We appreciate his contributions over the past years. The success of Monday Night Football has always been about the games and that will continue.”
Following Williams Jr’s interview on Fox News’ Fox and Friends on the morning of October 3, ESPN decided not to air his performance of “All My Rowdy Friends Are Here on Monday Night” that night, stating, “While Hank Williams Jr. is not an ESPN employee, we recognize that he is closely linked to our company through the open to Monday Night Football. We are extremely disappointed with his comments, and as a result we have decided to pull the open from tonight’s telecast.”
Ultimately, the network decided to end the relationship, although on Hank Williams Jr’s blog he says it was his decision:
“After reading hundreds of e-mails, I have made MY decision. By pulling my opening Oct 3rd, You (ESPN) stepped on the Toes of The First Amendment Freedom of Speech, so therefore Me, My Song, and All My Rowdy Friends are OUT OF HERE. It’s been a great run.” — Hank Williams Jr
