Comedy Central 'delights in bashing Christians,' charges Bill Donohue

New York City, N.Y., May 7, 2010 / 04:10 am

In response to reports that Comedy Central is considering running a cartoon series on Jesus Christ, Bill Donohue charged that the controversial network delights “in bashing Christians,” and recalled Comedy Central's recent efforts to ensure the removal content offensive to Muslims.

The proposed half hour episodes of the show “JC” depict Christ as a “regular guy” who moves to New York to get away from “his father's enormous shadow,” Fox News reported. The dad is portrayed as a powerful but apathetic character who prefers playing video games rather than talking to his son.

Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights, issued a statement on Thursday condemning the slated series.

Donohue recalled a recent incident during which the creators of South Park, a show that airs on Comedy Central, came under fire by Islamic group, “Revolution Muslim,” for featuring content in their show that took jabs at the Prophet Muhammad. Comedy Central censored the South Park episode on television and did not permit it to be shown on the network's website, wrote the New York Times on April 22.

“These are the same executives who delight in bashing Christians while continuing to censor any depiction of Muhammad on 'South Park,'” the Catholic League president asserted.

Donohue then quoted Comedy Central network official Kent Alterman, who, in reference to the “JC” show said, “In general, comedy in its purest form always makes some people uncomfortable.”

“Not true,” Donohue countered. “Besides the fact that there is no end to the number of comedians who have made a huge name for themselves without ever offending anyone, what is even more relevant is the fact that Comedy Central has absolutely no interest in making Muslims feel uncomfortable.”

“But maybe they're wrong,” he added. “Muslims regard Jesus to be a prophet and hold Him in high regard. They may not be too pleased to learn that one of their revered figures is going to be ridiculed on Comedy Central.”

Donohue suggested that Catholics contact Comedy Central CEO Doug Herzog in order to “dialogue” on proposed show.

“If you show up at Herzog's office, and he says he is feeling uneasy, let him know that having a fun time in its purest form always makes some people feel uncomfortable,” Donohue concluded. “He is sure to understand.”

CNA contacted Herzog but did not receive a response in time for publication.