2024-09-07 14:08:26
Luke Mockridge caused public outrage with a tasteless joke about the Paralympics. Could this have consequences for the comedian?
A “Die Deutschen” podcast episode with comedian Luke Mockridge was released several weeks ago, in which he made fun of the athletes at the Paralympic Games. But it was only after Olympic champion Kristina Vogel shared an excerpt from it on Friday that the 35-year-old’s statements went viral and provoked sharp criticism.
“There are people without legs and arms who are thrown into a pool – and whoever is the last to drown wins,” Luke Mockridge said in the podcast, among other things, and then burst into loud laughter. These scenes outraged countless people, and in the comments section of the Instagram post the statements were condemned as “disgusting”, “dehumanizing” or “discriminatory”.
There have also been voices calling for professional consequences for Luke Mockridge. In just a few days, on September 12th, his new Sat.1 show called “What’s in the Box?” will be starting on television. For many users, this is no longer acceptable in light of current events. “Sat.1, how can you still give this a platform?” someone asked.
“Mockridge works for Sat.1 and has been given a new show. If that doesn’t have consequences, save your campaigns against discrimination,” reads another comment. “Why is Luke Mockridge still allowed to have a show with you? Make a statement! Now!” demanded one person. Someone threw out the question: “Does Sat.1 really want to work with someone who makes jokes like that?” The broadcaster has so far left a t-online query unanswered.