Tina Fey Apologizes for Blackface Episodes of ’30 Rock’

Credit: Fameflynet Pictures

Yesterday, Vulture reported that Tina Fey penned a letter to streaming platforms carrying her hit series 30 Rock, asking that they remove four episodes featuring characters in blackface.

The message was also co-signed by collaborator Robert Carlock as well as the show’s home network, NBC.

“As we strive to do the work and do better in regards to race in America, we believe that these episodes featuring actors in race-changing makeup are best taken out of circulation,” read the memo, according to Variety. “I understand now that ‘intent’ is not a free pass for white people to use these images. I apologize for pain they have caused.”

“Going forward,” she continued, “no comedy-loving kid needs to stumble on these tropes and be stung by their ugliness. I thank NBCUniversal for honoring this request.”

30 Rock won 16 Emmys during its run from 2006 to 2013.

Thanks for speaking out, Tina. It’s the right thing to do.