I know it.
You know it.
He knows it.
I like Don Imus and I think he’s genuine. I grew up listening to “Imus in the Morning” when he was on WNnnnnnnnnBC in New York (quack quack). I think he is one of the most entertaining radio personalities of our time: satirical, humorous, and especially political incorrect.
I knew what I was getting when I listened or watched. Between his syndicated radio show and MSNBC simulcast, it's hard to imagine anyone didn't know what kind of material you could be potentially exposed to during his show. His employers certainly knew. That's why it bothered me when he was yanked off the air and abandoned by both CBS and MSNBC.
The Crucifixion
Imus' "nappy-headed hos" comment about the Rutgers Women's Basketball Team created a firestorm of controversy. Afterwards, he made every reasonable effort to undo the damage.
No apology was good enough.
No stance was contrite enough.
Few friends stood him.
Most turned away.
Not even all the good that had been done for the kids with cancer who visit his ranch was considered mitigating evidence in the courtroom of public opinion.
His detractors wanted his microphone-on-a-platter and nobody would be satisfied until the I-man had been fired.
Well, we all know how this turned out: Imus got a long vacation, sued for breach of contract, won a settlement, and eventually got a new job.
The Resurrection
Beginning Monday, Imus will step back into Radio.
Will the newly resurrected I-man tread lightly in some areas so as not to step on certain toes?
Or will he be the full-blown Imus his listeners love - never afraid to say what’s on his mind?
I never minded controversial radio personalities who put their foot in their mouth once-in-a-while.
But I never much cared for the ones who pussyfoot around when there’s something really important to say.
