Jerry Seinfeld says he’ll hire “Blacklisted” Michael Richards for his new show without question.

In a move that has sparked both controversy and commendation, comedy icon Jerry Seinfeld has announced his unwavering support for his former co-star, Michael Richards, despite the actor’s past transgressions. Richards, famously known for his role as Cosmo Kramer on the hit sitcom “Seinfeld,” faced intense backlash and was effectively blacklisted from Hollywood after a racially charged incident onstage in 2006. However, Seinfeld has made it clear that he is ready to give Richards a second chance.

“He’s a good guy who made a poor decision a hundred years ago,” Seinfeld stated unequivocally. “If you don’t like it, don’t watch.” With these words, Seinfeld has reignited the debate surrounding cancel culture and forgiveness in the entertainment industry.

Richards’ fall from grace occurred during a stand-up comedy routine at the Laugh Factory in Los Angeles, where he unleashed a barrage of racial slurs against African-American audience members, sparking outrage and condemnation from both the public and his peers. The incident quickly went viral, tarnishing Richards’ reputation and effectively halting his career in its tracks.

Despite the severity of his actions, Seinfeld has remained steadfast in his support for Richards, emphasizing the actor’s personal growth and redemption over the years. “We all make mistakes,” Seinfeld remarked. “What’s important is how we learn and grow from them.”

Seinfeld’s decision to stand by Richards has divided opinion, with some praising his loyalty and willingness to forgive, while others argue that Richards’ actions cannot be so easily overlooked or forgiven. The debate has once again brought into question the role of forgiveness and redemption in an industry quick to condemn and cast aside those who falter.

For Seinfeld, however, the decision to hire Richards for his new show is a matter of principle—a refusal to succumb to the pressures of cancel culture and an affirmation of his belief in second chances. “Michael is a talented actor and a dear friend,” Seinfeld asserted. “I believe in giving people the opportunity to redeem themselves.”

As the entertainment industry grapples with issues of accountability and forgiveness, Jerry Seinfeld’s unwavering support for Michael Richards serves as a reminder that redemption is possible, even in the face of public scrutiny. Whether or not audiences will embrace Richards’ return to the spotlight remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Jerry Seinfeld is not afraid to stand by his friend, even in the face of controversy.