Does Dog’s Son Want Him Muzzled?
It would seem that Duane “Dog” Chapman’s son Tucker has a bit of a chip on his shoulder about his famous bounty hunter dad…because this isn’t the first time he’s sold information about his dad to the tabloids:
Meanwhile, a source tells TMZ that the revelation that Dog’s son Tucker was the one who sold his father’s rant to the National Enquirer isn’t so shocking — given that he’s done it before. We’re told that just a few months back, Tucker was paid by the tabloid for a story about his dad disappearing.
Tucker seems to be upset with his father because Dog disapproves of his girlfriend, who happens to be black:
Attorney Brook Hart told The Associated Press that Chapman’s son, Tucker, sent the recording to the tabloid for “a lot of money.”
“I guess because of whatever level of anger he had of his father, he felt the need to express it in that manner,” Hart said. [...]
In the conversation, Chapman urges Tucker to break up with his girlfriend. He also expresses concern about the girlfriend trying to tape and go public about the TV star’s use of the N-word.
In a statement, the 54-year-old Chapman said he has “utmost respect and aloha for black people who have suffered so much due to racial discrimination and acts of hatred.
“I did not mean to add yet another slap in the face to an entire race of people who have brought so many gifts to this world,” he said. “I am ashamed of myself and I pledge to do whatever I can to repair this damage I have caused.”
Hart said his client is not a racist and vowed never to use the word again.
“I have never seen anything that suggests he judges people by the color of their skin or racial background or anything but on their character,” he said. “Duane lost his composure and made very, very inappropriate remarks, for which he truly regrets.”
Chapman said he was “disappointed in his choice of a friend, not due to her race, but her character. However, I should have never used that term.”
From what I’ve read about the incident, and heard on the recording, it isn’t the fact that the girl is black that upset Dog…it was her questionable character. He seemed to be under the impression that Tucker could have chosen more wisely in his choice of companion, considering the family profession. And you know what? He’s right. When you’re in that sort of job, you do need to be very careful about the company you keep.
It also seems that Tucker, 23, has just been released from prison after serving time on a 20-year drug charge. Perhaps he needs to take a closer look at his choice of friends.
For his part, Dog has issued an apology:
“My sincerest, heartfelt apologies go out to every person I have offended for my regrettable use of very inappropriate language. I am deeply disappointed in myself for speaking out of anger to my son and using such a hateful term in a private phone conversation. It was completely taken out of context. I was disappointed in his choice of a friend, not due to her race, but her character. However, I should have never used that term.
I have the utmost respect and aloha for black people – who have already suffered so much due to racial discrimination and acts of hatred. I did not mean to add yet another slap in the face to an entire race of people who have brought so many gifts to this world. I am ashamed of myself and I pledge to do whatever I can to repair this damage I have caused. In Hawaii, we have something called Ho’oponopono, where people come together to resolve crises and restore peace and balance.
I am meeting with my spiritual advisor, Rev. Tim Storey, and hope to meet with other black leaders so they can see who I really am and teach me the right thing to do to make things right, again. I know that all of my fans are deeply disappointed in me, as well, as I have tried to be a model for doing the right thing. I did not do the right thing this time, and hope you will forgive me. We learn from our mistakes, as my story of overcoming a life of crime has proven, and I will learn from this one for the rest of my life.”
You know what? I think he is sincere. Unlike so many celebrity blowhards, Dog is actually out there trying to do something for the good of society. He has actively worked with people of every race in his job, not just busting them but trying to help them become better people and get off drugs, crime, whatever. I’ve watched his show, read about him, and from everything I’ve seen Dog is not a racist.
He is, however a human being who made a mistake in his words. in his line of work, he mixes with the seedy underbelly of society that most of us turn our backs on, and this is the language they use. So should he throw away all these years of trying to do good, because of one incident? No, he definitely shouldn’t have used the word. It’s a horrible word. But we should throw him under the truck because of it? I know people personally who have vile language when they are pushed or angry, but who are in reality very kind people. Anyone is capable of saying anything, if pushed far enough.
It would also seem that his son Tucker just might be in violation of privacy laws in Hawaii, simply by taping the conversation to start with:
What I wonder, though: What about laws against wiretapping? It was this kind of taping that got Linda Tripp into trouble when she recorded her phone conversation with Monica Lewinsky. Since Maryland has a law that forbids taping a phone call without the other party’s permission, the state tried to prosecute Tripp for the Lewinsky tapes. In the end, the prosecution was complicated by the fact that Tripp had made an immunity agreement with Ken Starr’s office and that the prosecution’s star witness was the less than credible Lewinsky.
But what about a case against Tucker Chapman’s case, which presumably does not suffer from the same impediments?
I did a bit of research, trying to find out what Tucker’s state of residence is. The closest I got to an answer was this Associated Press story, which mentions that there is a Honolulu phone number listed under Tucker’s name. If he’s indeed covered under Hawaii’s jurisdiction, then I wonder if Tucker is in violation of §711-1111 of Hawaii’s Code, Violation of privacy in the second degree.
The statute is a bit confusing. (Or maybe it’s just been too long since I’ve practiced law.) But from what I can tell, Tucker might have a problem. The Code seems to say that someone who records a phone conversation without the permission of both parties is criminally liable. On the other hand, the Code’s commentary says:Â “If one of the parties to the communication authorizes its interception or recordation (e.g., in an attempt to trace obscene or extortionary telephone calls), criminal sanctions ought not to result.”
Hmmmm. Tucker certainly authorized the recordation (what a word). But his motives were a little less pure than trying to trace an obscene caller. (Not that Dog’s language was exactly pure and virtuous, but you know what I mean.) I guess we’ll have to wait and see whether Hawaiian prosecutors think a crime has been committed.
So basically Tucker could be prosecuted for doing the taping. I hope the money he got from the Enquirer was worth selling out his father.
Let me ask you this: Why is it that some black people can say this word, over and over, in reference to themselves, and it’s perfectly fine? I guarantee you that if you put a hidden mic on some of the black rappers who throw this word around so conspicuously (along with the obligatory “b*tches” and “hos” and whatever else), you’ll hear people of all races called every name they can think of. Same with white people. Same for all races. People say ignorant things all the time about other races. I’ve said it before…stupidity knows no race, gender, age, or nationality. Why isn’t the nation in an uproar about rapper Nas naming his new cd “Nigger”? What’s the difference?
Dog may have been stupid, but he isn’t a racist. People don’t show racism by their words. Ignorance, yes, but not racism. Racism is in one’s actions. Racism is so much more than a word. And words can only hurt if we allow them to.
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Excellent job!! I couldn’t have said it better myself.
Comment by Dawn — November 2, 2007 @ 5:21 pm
dog is done and tucker is a snitch ,punk puke and nobody likes a sell out
Comment by Danny — November 2, 2007 @ 5:25 pm
dog is done and tucker is a snitch ,punk puke and nobody likes a sell out and I havent said this before
Comment by Danny — November 2, 2007 @ 5:26 pm
apology or not , he should have never said that he ’s suppossed to be a role model right? The only ; Nigger i see is him , get a haircut and re image your self!
Comment by jon — November 2, 2007 @ 5:27 pm
I’m white, and mainly date black women. I find what Dog said apalling. But more appaling was his jailbird son turning traitor on his Dad.
I think Dog’s excuse that it was her character not her race that galled him does not comport with what he said on the tape. He said they use the N- word alot, well just stop. It’s not that hard. Also, he brought up Lisa, his daughter, and if she dated a black man ( he used the N-word) they would say fuck that. So his apology seems less than accurate or sincere.
I’m not saying that he’s a monster, but he is somewhat racist and his remarks were not confined to just her charater, but spilled over into a racist tirade.
Comment by mike — November 2, 2007 @ 5:54 pm
His actions speak louder than his words. He has helped people of any race on his show.
I have heard “learned” talk show hosts call him a mullet haired redneck. Is that hateful? Yep
Lets be real the N word is descriptive of low life blacks, not all blacks. Just as redneck trailer trash for low life whites or wetbacks for Mexicans or Wop for Italian etc. America needs to get over the double standard for language!
I am sure this is going to P#ss off some more people
Comment by Steve — November 2, 2007 @ 5:58 pm
He’s son sold him and the whole family out for a few bucks to buy dope with. He was probably a rat in prison too.
Comment by allreaders.net — November 2, 2007 @ 8:03 pm
Dog’s son, Tucker, is a “Royal Asshole”. Dog is not a predious person as you can tell by watching his show. I love his show and he tries to talk with these people and make them realize how much they are messing up their lives. Evidently a father and a son can’t have a disagreement without it being broadcasted all over the world. Tucker needs to go back to jail and grow up and if Tucker’s girlfriend is anything like him she probably is a no good bitch no matter what color or nationality she is.
Comment by ET — November 2, 2007 @ 8:12 pm
Tucker should be hunted and beat.
Comment by commander — November 2, 2007 @ 8:15 pm
YOU COULDNT HAVE SAID IT ANY BETTER:A WORD IS NOT RACIST BUT ACTIONS ARE..IF SAYING A WORD OR CALLING PEOPLE NAMES WAS RACIST EVERY RACE IN THE COUNTRY WOULD BE RACIST AGAINST ANOTHER RACE..ALOT OF BLACKS ARE RACIST TOWARDS WHITES(ESPECIALLY RAPPERS)JUST LISTEN TO THEIR MUSIC AND WATCH THEIR VIDEOS..I THINK THEY SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR ACTIONS ALSO..I AM GETTING SICK OF THE DOUBLE STANDARD WE HAVE IN THIS COUNTRY…PERSONALLY I FEEL LIKE THE NIGGER!!!AND GUESS WHAT PEPS I AM A BLACK MAN!!!AND NO THAT WORD DIDNT OFFEND ME.
Comment by jerry — November 2, 2007 @ 8:36 pm
Well,haven’t we seen the under-layer of America.
Racism worn like a faint perfume,never obvious.
Rage,rage against the blight.
Comment by Sosorry — November 2, 2007 @ 9:50 pm
I’m certainly in the minority here when I say that I applaud Tucker’s coming forward and selling the story and feel that his decision should be exalted rather than denigrated. Good for you Tucker. I’ve come across site after site where forum members have expressed shock at Tucker’s “betrayal” of his father.These sorts of things need to be outed so that the society they effect can deal with them.
I feel these sorts of comments (accusing Tucker of Betrayal) are terribly telling about the racism that pervades our society in spite of the fact that we assert that no such thing exists .
I see the same sort of denial of racism in your post. You’re not alone, however. This sort of denial has been perpetrated across many blogs and many sites, most of the bloggers are asking the same question you ask: “Why is it that black people can say this word, over and over, in reference to themselves, and it’s perfectly fine?”
It’s not perfectly fine. Its been an issue of contention within and without the African-American community for as long as I can recall. Richard Pryor, who appropriated the term with the hopes of diminishing its racist significance recanted his initial stance and argued that it ought not be used anymore. Even Mooney, who remained loyal to the word after Pryor denounced changed his sentiments after Michael Richard’s ‘outburst’. It was his doctor phil moment, I recall.
And even if its used within the black community as a term of ‘affection’, its painfully apparent from both the transcripts and the recording of the phonecall that Dog did not use it in the same light. He states that his problem is with Tucker’s girlfriend’s character but later on conflates her being black with her being a fucked up person. He also goes on to state that if Lyssa brought home a black guy they’d reject her as well. Dog’s words aren’t taken out of context at all. He means them, but on a certain level he doesn’t even recognize that. This is what makes the language and the institution of racism so insidious.
For my part, I hope Dog’s apologies are genuine and that he does make amends. He has the chance to engender a dialogue in this country that is long overdue, and he has the chance to change the perceptions of race and racism in this country if he is indeed genuine.
I hope he is and that this is not another example of a white guy who unconsciously harbors a racist outlook while insisting that he doesnt, ala Imus.
Just because you’ve had a black girlfriend, or a black preacher, or a black brother in law does not mean that you cannot be a racist or prejudiced against black people. One needs only look at our founding fathers, or hell, even Strom Thurmond to know this.
Comment by Angie — November 2, 2007 @ 10:13 pm
Tucker is a rat!!!! and needs to be taught a lesson!
Comment by sue — November 2, 2007 @ 10:43 pm
I am so tired of hearing the black community yelling racism for every little thing that happens. It is time to get over it people! Why is it that you can call other nationalities names and it is ok to do so, but when someone does it to you the first thing you do is yell racism. Your beating a dead horse and I for one am getting sick of hearing it all the time.
It sounds to me like Tucker was looking for some easy money and he and his girlfriend set Dog up to get that easy money. That is a far worse offense then calling someone the “N” word! Sounds like you got yourself quite the education while in prison, Tucker, and if I were Dog I would be ashamed to even claim you as my son! When you betray family for money, well in my book, that is as low as you can get!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Sandra — November 2, 2007 @ 10:57 pm
RE: the dog the bounty hunter has anyone ever thought that he was set up by his son and that is not fair and if was not a set why was the conversation not kept private unless it was meant to hurt the dog and now he gets money out of the story how sad that someone has to wreck someones life and has anyone ever taken the time that in his show he respect all people as human beings no matter what creed they are and we like and feel that everyone mkaes mistakes and it not fair to be axed and taken off for one mistake that should not have public unless it was a vendetta by his son….
Please can you help Dog The Bounty Hunter. A&E are taking Dog The
Bounty Hunter off due to a personal conversation that has been
publicized. We are avid watchers and really need help to get the
show back on as he is a true Hero and does so much good, that the
show, and the man should not be ostracized for a human error . We all
make mistakes and say the wrong things in the heat of Anger.. So I
hope you can help us …From Marg & Helen
Comment by marg — November 2, 2007 @ 11:07 pm
Why is it that only WHITE people cannot use the N word? Turn on the radio/TV or walk in any urban area and the word is used more commonly than the words: black, colored or Negro combined by those who holla loudest. It kinda like the French Police Lieutenant in Casablanca stating: I’M SHOCKED, SHOCKED TO LEARN THERE IS GAMBLING GOING ON HERE. Then is handed his days winnings, thankfully.
As Jack Nicholson said in his Melvin Udall character:
THINK WHITE… AND GET REAL !
Comment by Jenny — November 2, 2007 @ 11:28 pm
Lelandisms101, how do you know all of this info? What Dog did was wrong, what Tucker did was wrong. I think Dog and the gang has done a lot of good and it shouldn’t all be erased because of an ignorant comment.
Comment by Kate-0 — November 3, 2007 @ 12:44 am
Show me where I said all black people call each other this word. Yeah, it’s because I didn’t say it. It’s a certain segment of black people, but not all. Just like a certain segment of white people join the KKK, but not all.
You see, you’re too wrapped up in “OMG he said NIGGER!!!” to see what this is really all about. This is about a father who tried to help his son after he was released from jail, and got kicked in the balls for his help. Tucker chose drugs and his seedy friends over his family and his honor.
And I repeatedly said that Dog should NOT have used that word. Did I not say that? Yes, I did. But I also said that one mistake does not an entire career make. We shouldn’t be so quick to throw Dog to the trash heap because of one word. Have you every called someone a name, or said something in the heat of the moment, then regretted it? Of course you have, everyone has, and if you say you haven’t your a liar. Dog has done more for those whom society has thrown away than I’ll be anyone reading this site ever has, including me.
And what’s the difference between him saying that word, and what some of you are calling him? What’s the difference? He said a name, you said a name, tell me the difference.
WORDS ONLY HAVE THE POWER THAT PEOPLE GIVE TO THEM. IF YOU DON’T GIVE WORDS ANY POWER, THEY FAIL TO HURT YOU. Racism is not the word “nigger”. Here is a definition of “racism”:
All Dog has done in his career is HELP people of other races, ANY race. He preaches equality and self-discipline and that all men are equal. Now, if you want to continue to say that Dog is a racist because of one word, then maybe it’s YOU who has a racism problem.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 1:57 am
That’s what drugs do to you. They take over your mind, body and soul. A druggey will do anything to get money for drugs, even if it means selling out their family. If Dog did buy him a house he should kick his ass out on the streets and let the streets and drugs just consume his sorry ass. I know as a parent you love your children unconditionaly and as long as they act like a decent human being you will help them anyway possibe but when they do something like this you have to bring out that “Tough Love”. Apparently the only thing he learned in prison was when I get out how can I screw my Dad and family to get $ for drugs. I hope someone starts a web site to save the Dog’s TV show and everyone finds out the truth about Tucker because this sucks. I don’t believe there is a single person that was born in
America that has not used the “N” word among friends or in their own home. As the other writer said why is OK for the rappers to use the “N” word in their music and no one else is allowed to use it. Isn’t that called a “Double Standard”, all you “nay sayers” out there. Put “Dog” back on the air and let him tell the whole story not just a piece of it like the “National Trash Paper” did. This was a private conservation between father and son and the son illegally taped it. He should go back to prison for what he has done illegally and the “Dog” should be allowed to take him behind the wood shed and show him how to be a man and not a druggey.
Comment by Yvonne H — November 3, 2007 @ 2:22 am
As a black woman I choose not to use the N-word based on its historical derivation. I hear many black people use it however, and find it offensive, but I feel that when a black person uses the word it often times serves as a term of endearment for the lack of a better analogy. I grew up being taught to make wine out of water and lemonade out of lemons. I guess that goes back to the teachings of my youth when we’d recite “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me…” or hearing the empowering words of Jesse Jackson “…I am somebody…” The word itself was used to evoke negativity and to berate, but we as a race taught ourselves how to give the word a new meaning in order to make it more palatable when it was meant to degrade us. When a black person uses that word, it has a total different meaning than when a non-black person uses it. It’s kind of like a man being able to call his wife “Sweet-cheeks†but his best friend or co-worker better not.
As far as the bounty hunter guy is concerned, I don’t watch the show and know very little about the guy. I did hear a portion of the tape and don’t feel his tirade justifies his show being pulled. Did he use bad judgment in using the word? Yeah…I don’t use racial slurs or racially denigrating words publicly or privately. I make a conscious effort not to, but this guy didn’t know he was on blast for the world to hear…quite frankly I think a lot of people would be out of jobs if we could have access to their private conversations. I think his son’s actions were extremely tacky and I hope his father can find it in him to forgive him.
Comment by Jae — November 3, 2007 @ 5:35 am
Forgive me if I am wrong but I remember hearing that the “gang” Duanne Chapman belonged to before he went to jail was an white supremist based group. Duanne would never speak about it or address the statement. But if that were true then his just stands to reason his using the n word. What is truly wrong is that his son betrayed him for money not principles or morals, just cold hard cash. I wonder has anyone else heard or read about Duanne and his participation in the gang?
Comment by Simone — November 3, 2007 @ 7:56 am
It amazes me when people of other races justify use of rasict terms by pointing at others and saying ,this group or that group uses them, ask yourself what does that word mean coming from you? Have YOU ever been called the “N” word? Eveytime a situation like this happens it amazes me people pull the justifications out of their pockets.America stop. He is wrong and if you are not black don’t use the word.I love “Dog’ The Bounty Hunter ,i thought he had overcome a difficult youth to become a great man, however the man behind closed doors isn’t so great…maybe you guys kind of pooh pooh what he did because you see more of yourselves in him than you realize.
Comment by Theresa — November 3, 2007 @ 8:07 am
Lets see how many people use this word and many other words in a heated conversation. Lets start secretly recording everyone’s phone conversations that we are angry with, and do what this low life son did to his father and his family for a few bucks. I don’t think that this man is racist, and this conversation should have never been sold to anyone. His son is a jerk!
Comment by Lynn — November 3, 2007 @ 8:17 am
Have you listened to the tape? He was firing his son because his dating a black woman would prevent everyone around them from being able to use the world “Nigger” whenever they wanted.
That tells me that he is a huge, huge idiot redneck, and he got what he deserved. He’s a huge racist. And as for his son’s loyalt, well, Dog was firing his son; what kind of loyalty because he felt like he couldn’t use the word “Nigger” whenever he wanted, what kind of loyalt is that? Son should have asked for more money while he looked for a job. You don’t pick your family. You get them in the luck of the draw. You pick your spouse and your friends. Just because you’re stuck with an idiot redneck father doesn’t mean you have to be “loyal” to him.
Comment by Lynn Covey Jr. — November 3, 2007 @ 10:51 am
You are a complete idiot. Its not OK for anyone to use the N-word, and, YES, people do show their racism through words - its called hate. Using racist words is a way to express their racism!
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 11:14 am
What Tucker did was right! He may have broke the law by tape recording the conversations, but everyone needed to see who Dog really is behind the scenes. This is Dogs fault, not Tuckers. Dog used the N-word, and it spilled out everywhere. Don’t be a racist!
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 11:17 am
By the way, if you’re a lawyer in Hawaii, I’d credit you’re knowledge of the law. HOWEVER, IT SEEMS LIKE YOU’RE IN NO WAY RELATED TO THE LAW SO SHUT UP AND LEAVE THE LAW TO SOMEONE WHO KNOWS SOMETHING ABOUT IT!
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 11:20 am
The “N†word is just that…A WORD that means nothing really. Just like the “C†word (cracker) is just a silly word. The “N†word actually means “thief and a liarâ€. It has nothing to do with the color of a persons skin or race.I can think of plenty of words that would actually be consiered offensive.But everyone needs a reality check if they actually consider the “N†word offensive including the black race!They use the “N†out of context all the time. And they also use the word Cracker in an offensive manner in the media DAILY! But Who cares its just a silly word!Get A life People, and find something better to do with your time,like making a difference in this world.Try helping someone for a change,instead of hurting them, or judging them.â€Judge not lest ye be judged yourselfâ€!
Comment by Man of Color — November 3, 2007 @ 1:01 pm
#27: I never said I was a lawyer. I merely quoted someone else’s article, which I found interesting…someone who does have law experience.
If you don’t find it interesting, great, but I’ll post what I want. If you don’t like it, don’t read it.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 1:48 pm
Steve please low life black? COME ON? the word nigger is used so often if i had on a business suit ou baggy jeans i would still be called a nigger , and the word cracker is someone from georgia and flordia, orginal settlers , nigger is a very hostile and disrespectful term he knows better and i have been called that many times by alot of people of various races .
Comment by jon — November 3, 2007 @ 1:52 pm
#22: No, I haven’t been called a Nigger, but let’s make a rundown of the words I have been called:
That’s just a sampling. Tell me which one are worse than “nigger”? Which ones are less offensive? Which ones are about on the same footing?
The TRUTH is that words can only hurt if you allow them to. When it all comes down to the end of the day, it’s just a word, though one he should not have used. Truth is, everyone has been called some name at some point in their life. What gives certain black people the right to be more offended than anyone else in the world when it comes to a word? It would seem, from the comments here, that many have a great grasp on the fact that yes…it’s just a word that has no power over you other than what you allow it to have.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 1:53 pm
p.s no body wants to address race issues in this country and before you respond i know you all have some prejudice inside you .
Comment by jon — November 3, 2007 @ 1:56 pm
#24: Have you listened to the whole tape? Not just the part that the Enquirer edited down, but the entire thing?
Dog fired his son because his choice of druggie friends was putting the business in jeopardy. These girls were out to get him and would stop at nothing to do so. They picked on one word that Dog used (an offensive word, yes, but just a word, albeit one he should not have used) and chose that to bring him down.
I hope Tucker is happy with his money. Wonder what secrets he’ll try to sell next when he blows all this up his nose?
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 1:57 pm
And actually, the word “nigger” was not coined to be a disrespectful term. In many languages, niger, neger, or a form of the spelling means something that is dark or black. In Latin, niger means, simply, black. Not a black person, but a dark color.
The word itself was used in Colonial times simply to describe black people, slaves, or in fact any dark-skinned person, including those of Indian or Pakistani descent, because of the darkness of their skin color.
It wasn’t until the 1800’s that the word became to be in use as a derogatory term. And due to popular usage in that form, it has become the slur we know today.
NO, people shouldn’t run around using it. NO, people shouldn’t insult each other with it. But don’t cheapen history by saying it originated as a racial slur, because it didn’t.
Way back in the origins of history, they needed a word to describe dark colors, and that was the one they came up with. To say it originated as a racial slur cheapens history and yourself. However, since it has evolved into a racial slur, NO people should not use it and Dog should not have used it.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 2:12 pm
And have people totally missed the fact that Dog has apologized? Have we become so desensitized to celebrity fake half-hearted apologies that we don’t recognize honestly when we see it?
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 2:15 pm
Freedom of speech, baby. This country is turning into Nazi Germany more and more everyday. Don’t say this, don’t think that. Can’t even have a private conversation without worrying about the thought police. His son is a rat and what goes around comes around. As for Dog, I love his show and hope it stays on the air.
Comment by Pat O — November 3, 2007 @ 3:14 pm
What Dog said was definitely not right but he’s not the first and won’t be the last. As long as people are human and have opinions (right or wrong) there will be racism, hate, violence etc. The only way you can live in a utopian society like that is after you die and go to heaven(or whatever benevolent afterlife you belive in) or if Adam & Eve would not have commited the original sin & we all would still be in paradise. Throughout the world from the beginning of time people have been hated & tormented for lots of things from ideology to racism. Nazi’s hated Jews & Gypsies so they tried to exterminate them, etc etc. Look at history of the entire world people & you will see everyone is not always liked by someone else. Thats why we have so many wars to read about throughout history, so many atrocities.
I can imagine that more likely Tucker had been pushing his father to the limit because by recording this conversation he obviously knew he was going to push him beyond the brink of civility and decency. I venture to guess that Dog is human as we all are (hopefully). I belive that he knew his money train was coming to the end of the road & with this he could milk a little more out of Dog before he was let go. Yes Dog does sound like a racist but we all are in one form or another and nobody can me myself believe differently. Tucker though is the immature, life sucking, parasitic punk that cut his nose off to spite his face. He will drain his gravy train until there is nothing left and then go to the next victim. Ungrateful conniving children, hmmm who woulda thunk it?? Its a shame that we don’t have a perfect world, Dog would have never said such a reprehensible word indicating his racist tendancies and Tucker would not have felt the need to leech money off of his father by whatever means necessary.The rest of us should not make their (Dog & Tucker) battle our own as well. Its a sad situation but its their problem not ours as a society.
Comment by Monica — November 3, 2007 @ 3:47 pm
Are you serious?
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 5:23 pm
Unbelievable! I thought the apologists for racism were on TV! Are you kidding me? They are just words- Don’t let them hurt you, we are all racist and can’t rid the world of racism, Tucker is a jerk, and it’s their battle, not ours, and lets not judge unless we have not sinned or committed error, etc… Listen, if you find a reason to believe the N-word is not a racist slur, you’re in denial, and should think about your own racism. If you justify Dogs’ use of the N-word because rappers use the N-word daily, EXAMINE YOUR OWN RACISM YES, YOU MAY BE A RACIST! If you argue the tape recording was taken out of context, IT DOESN’T MATTER! The N-word is a racist slur, and should not be used.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 8:02 pm
#36, you also sound like an idiot! Are you defending Dog’s use of the N-word? Or DO YOU want to use the N-word without regard for any consequence? It’s sad when you start believing this country is becoming Nazi Germany when people are upset with someone with a fan following who uses the N-word as freely as Dog admitted he and his family does. Face it, the main character of the show you love is a racist! Now that you know for sure, you still love the show! Sounds to me like you’re becoming Nazi Germany.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 8:07 pm
#31 K, again, you sound like an idiot! Don’t you read what you write? Here, read it: “What gives certain black people the right to be more offended than anyone else in the world when it comes to a word?” Anyone who is called the N-word is a victim of hate, as are you for being called “white trash” as you listed above. Let me rephrase my prior statement for you: Racial slurs are a medium of hate, such as burning a cross on someone’s yard, as is discriminating based on race, or making raical jokes. But that’s not it! Think about it.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 8:20 pm
#41: Thank you for saying I sound like an idiot. I must be doing something to make people think, and I like that.
You see, any time the infamous “N” word is used, no matter how (as a racially derogatory slur, or a term used by certain people as a form of empowerment), there are always some who get incredibly offended. And you know what? They may be right to be offended. It’s a horrible word.
But then they turn around and call people who say that word “idiots” and “white trash” and “rednecks”. Which is worse?
What I am saying is that people give words power that they should not have. A word is just that…a word. But what are the actions behind the word? Dog’s actions have been to help people that most of society throws away with the garbage…no matter their race. Now you tell me…which is worse…his usage of the “N” word, or someone who actively commits a hate crime against a black person? I’m not saying we should all run around hollering it at the top of our lungs, just so there’s no confusion.
I determined that I would not net words define me, and I rose above people’s ignorance of me. Words will only hurt if you allow them to.
And I think everyone seems to be overlooking that I have REPEATEDLY said that he SHOULD NOT HAVE SAID IT. While the word didn’t originate as a racial slur, it HAS evolved into one, and therefore should NOT be used. I’ve said he should not have used it, Dog has apologized to all concerned and is trying to better himself, what more do you want? A thirty-year career thrown down the drain because of one mistake?
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 8:38 pm
Dear #42 K, I don’t care from where or from what the N-word originated, and it doesn’t matter that you found it on Wikipedia. It’s more than obvious to me you have no idea what racism means. IT IS AN INSTITUTION. Racial slurs are a form of empowerment to the institution. The United States has an institution of racism, and part of it is the use of racial slurs. Don’t believe for one second that people calling you an ‘idiot’ feeds into the institution of racism because it doesn’t. Calling someone an idiot may feed into the “Institution of Idiots” but it’s only to point out ignorance, which is a state of mind that needs to be confronted.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 9:11 pm
In addition, K, you state you haven’t let words define you. Well now I’m REALLY confused because not only do you ask “What gives certain black people the right to be more offended than anyone else in the world when it comes to a word?â€, but you also compare being called an ‘Idiot’ to being called the N-word, then you ask us to identify the better of the worst in your question “Now you tell me…which is worse…his usage of the “N†word, or someone who actively commits a hate crime against a black person?” With your logic, we should be releived Dog only uses the N-word freely as opposed to assaulting other people. BUT WAIT A MINUTE! You also said this “Dog’s actions have been to help people that most of society throws away with the garbage…no matter their race.” I’ve watched Dog’s show, but I’m not sure you have. He hunts down people for money! He and his crew surround a person, and run at the person with hands on the spray and on the cuffs. I’m not defending the bail jumpers, but don’t tell me dog is ACTING IN GOOD FAITH, as opposed to acting, when he takes bail jumpers into custody.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 9:21 pm
Well, since I’ve been called both an idiot and a very smart person, I guess one’s definition of “idiot” is very subjective. (and I did not get that definition off Wikipedia…it is a dictionary definition)
And how can you justify people getting mad and calling Dog a “redneck” and “white trash”? A name is a name.
The problem is that people can’t see past words. How many times have I said that the word is offensive and people shouldn’t use it? How many times have I said Dog shouldn’t have said it? He deserves to be censured but not to be thrown under the truck.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 9:24 pm
Oh, K, for our clarification on your statement “Dog’s actions have been to help people that most of society throws away with the garbage…no matter their race.†Did you mean the Dog and his familys’ free use of the N-word, or bounty hunting?
I assumed when I shouldn’t have. Please, be honest.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 9:24 pm
Well if it isn’t K. Please script where I’ve justified the use of the term ‘redneck’ and ‘white trash’? I don’t justify it, I don’t defend it, I will not use those slurs, and I advocate against the institution from which they’re derived.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 9:27 pm
K, I do hope you’re a very smart person, but what you’ve said so far doesn’t convice me. You continue to point out that words are a problem. You’re hearing the word, not reading the word…you’re not thinking about the word. The word Dog used could have been any other, but he chose the N-word because he is a racist…because he is Ethnocentric and others are beneath him enough to address some people as the N-word.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 9:33 pm
I have absolutely watched his show. And I never said being called an idiot was the SAME, I said it was a name that I have been called…which I CHOSE not to let define me as a human being.
He hunts people down for money? Please. He helps bond people out of jail, then IF they CHOOSE to jump bail or violate parole or commit a crime, and the court gets involved, then he goes and gets them. Yes, because that is what he is SUPPOSED to do. What, he can loan then $5K or $10K or however much, and then they jump bail and leave him to eat the cost, so they can go off and do God knows what?
And how many times has he HELPED people on that show, people that he had to chase down and go get? How many times has he NOT turned in evidence that could have gotten them a harsher sentence? How many times has he gotten them into a drug rehab program, or helped them get jobs afterwards, or any number of things? He works with drug addicts and drug pushers and prostitutes and wife beaters and those whom society does consider to be “garbage”. He sits and talks with them and tries to help.
Yes, he goes and hunts them down, but that’s what he’s supposed to do. And you know what? If I had to go after some of these people, I’d have my hands on the spray too, because drugs do crazy things to people and they’re liable to do anything, including shoot you in the face and not think anything about it.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 9:33 pm
Well, I’m sorry you don’t think so. I just choose not to be hung up on words that people have called me.
If I do, then I’ve given not only the words power over me, but I’ve given that person power over me, and I won’t allow that to happen. Why should I walk around angry because some person called me a whore in a fit of anger? Why should I let the word “b*tch” define me, since I know the person who said it to me truly had no clue? Am I not better than that? Can I not rise above?
We just have two diffrent points of view on it. I’m not here to say you can’t voice your opinion, I just don’t happen to agree with everything you’ve said. I’m also not saying I’m some sort of highly intelligent person…just that “idiot” and “intelligent” are subjective. One can call someone with whom one agrees “intelligent” even if they are not, and one can call someone with whom one disagrees an “idiot”, even if they are not.
And just so there is no confusion…NO, Dog shouldn’t have said it. I myself don’t say it (unless I’m in a discussion such as this) and I don’t call people that name. No matter its origins (and I was merely pointing out that, unlike what some others have said, it did not originate as a racial slur), it has evolved into a racial slur today, and thusly I don’t use it.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 9:41 pm
WOW K! I CAN HEAR YOUR CRY NOW! “DOG USED THE N-WORD, BUT HE HELPS PEOPLE SO ITS OK…HE CALLS PEOPLE THE N-WORD BUT IT’S A SMALL PRICE TO PAY FOR DIGNITY.” Then you go and add feul to the fire by stating “How many times has he NOT turned in evidence that could have gotten them a harsher sentence, or got them into a drug rehab program, or helped them get jobs afterwards, or any number of things?” So her it is, DOG IS A RACIST, HE WITHOLDS EVIDENCE, HUNTS DOWN BAIL-JUMPERS, AND IS NICE TO THEM ON CAMERA, BUT THEN HE CALLS THEM THE N-WORD OFF CAMERA. What a great guy, don’t you think?
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 9:42 pm
Well, JRico, I attempted to have a civilized conversation, but I can see now that is pretty much impossible.
(I can see the mistake I made…I should have worded it “How many times has he NOT turned in evidence that would have gotten them a harsher sentence? And how many times has he gotten them into a drug rehab program…” etc. My mistake, my excuse is typing too quickly. I edited accordingly so there is no mistaking my meaning.)
One more time. Dog should not have used it and I hope he never does again.
Comment by k — November 3, 2007 @ 9:47 pm
K, how much more civilized do you want- we’re typing! Anyway, you’ve completely missed the point again. The jail/prison sentence DOES NOT MATTER. Here’s what matters: Dog is a racist, and he witholds evidence. Now, the evidence issue is for authorities to clarify, not me. But, He is a racist. You also said this:
“I just choose not to be hung up on words that people have called me…If I do, then I’ve given not only the words power over me, but I’ve given that person power over me, and I won’t allow that to happen. Why should I walk around angry because some person called me a whore in a fit of anger? Why should I let the word “b*tch†define me, since I know the person who said it to me truly had no clue? Am I not better than that? Can I not rise above?”
K, being called an ‘idiot’ or a ‘whore’ is not the same as being called the N-word or the Sp-word. The latter two feed the institution of racism…they work to keep victims of Ethnocentricity down. They are used to express hate based on race. Based on your statement:
“No, I haven’t been called a Nigger, but let’s make a rundown of the words I have been called…stupid, ignorant, a**hole, idiot, b*tch, whore, two-dollar whore (that one was for flair), redneck, white trash”
I would assume you are White. But becuase you are White, there’s no excuse to remain ignorant. Based on what you’ve argued, and your attempt to exit this discussion by stating “Well, JRico, I attempted to have a civilized conversation, but I can see now that is pretty much impossible.” it’s very clear to me that you, in fact, are ignorant. You aren’t alone, but you can do something about it. It’s your choice.
Comment by JRico — November 3, 2007 @ 10:07 pm
K isn’t ignorant, she has perspective, something sadly people who look for reasons to feel persecuted clearly don’t have.
There are plenty of racist in this world to call out, all k, myself, and many, many others are saying is that Dog may not act in a manner in which we feel as a society is acceptable or appropriate, but that doesn’t mean he discriminated against people based solely on their color. He seemed far more offended by this woman’s character than what color she was, he was merely blending the two into a stereotype that could have easily been ANYTHING, white, black, hispanic, asian, gay - whatever.
If it’s racist people you are looking for, there out there, but Dog isn’t high on that list.
Comment by Dawn — November 4, 2007 @ 12:00 am
Oh and one more thing JRico, if you continue calling k or anyone else on this site an idiot, you will be banned, and then we will proceed to call you out for being an asshole who clearly has to resort to insults in order to get their point across. Which, btw, is the epitome of an asshole, since we are arguing semantics and all.
Comment by Dawn — November 4, 2007 @ 12:02 am
But, “white trash” or “redneck” ARE racial putdowns. That’s okay, though, since they aren’t the “N” word. You conveniently ignored those, while choosing to latch onto “idiot”, which I clearly said wasn’t the same as the “N” word.
I choose to rise above words. It isn’t my fault if some choose to let a word, no matter if it is horribly meant or not, to define them. And I choose to not let you define me, because I know who I am.
My last thoughts on the subject. Good day.
Comment by k — November 4, 2007 @ 1:23 am
Hi Dawn. OK, call me an Asshole! Why? Because I’ve called K and you idiots? If that’s the reason, fine, ban me, unless you’ve got something better.
K, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU. I’ll simply repost a previous statement I’ve made for your recollection:
“Please script where I’ve justified the use of the term ‘redneck’ and ‘white trash’? I don’t justify it, I don’t defend it, I will not use those slurs, and I advocate against the institution from which they’re derived.”
K, I’m getting tired of repeating myself to you. Please keep up. Thanks. -JRico
Comment by JRico — November 4, 2007 @ 9:53 am
This is ridiculous. Basically, let he who has no sin cast the first stone. All the people getting upset and wanting to have Dog’s show cancelled, look in the mirror. LOOK IN THE MIRROR!!!!!!!
Comment by alteredego — November 4, 2007 @ 10:25 am
Dog and his pack are the lowest of low. Out there making a difference?, Come one people think they do it for making a difference?. It’s a TV show, all the people they catch already know how it will go down , it’s called choreograph. Dog and his over stuffed bitch couldn’t catch a cold with being so well recognized.
Comment by dave — November 4, 2007 @ 3:31 pm
Okay, he stuck his foot in his mouth and made himself look bad, everyone of us has said something we’ve regretted at least once. I don’t like the word, in fact I hate it and I am uncomfortable even hearing someone use it. No matter what color the user is.
I guess he was right about this girl though huh? His worst fear came true with his backstabbing son at the healm. It’s bad, he was right to say he is sorry, but I think that the consequence is overkill.
If we ALL stop using the word it will eventually go away. So, if it is so bad that whites can’t use it, then the blacks who do should have enough self-respect not to use it themselves. For heaven sake, it is an old slur that have died it’s death a long time ago and the quickest way to get to that point is for EVERYONE to stop using it. The way some of us in society want to hang on to crap like it’s recent pain and stuff hasn’t gotten better…I don’t see it happening. Sad.
Comment by susan — November 4, 2007 @ 7:27 pm
Hey Alteredego! I almost appreciate your ‘neutral’ stance to confrontation, but choosing to stay silent HELPS NOTHING, even when you’ve sinned. That is only another excuse to stay silent and tolerate racism! DON’T TOLERATE RACISM! Your silence only helps the institution of racism. BESIDES, YOU’VE ALREADY SINNED? WHAT WILL IT HURT TO ADVOCATE AGAINST RACISM?
Hey SUSAN! You’re close, but a little off. First things first, DO NOT POINT TO THE “…blacks who do should have enough self-respect not to use it themselves.” Why are you offended because the “blacks” use it, but everyone else shouldn’t? NOBODY SHOULD USE IT, and the fact that you implicate “Blacks” is only a justification to tolerate using the N-word. Here is your justification: if the “Blacks” use the word, then “Whites” should be able to, unless “…we ALL stop using the word it will eventually go away.” In addition, yes, it is an old slur, but it survives because it’s part of an institution of racism in the United States; it’s not just a word! THE N-WORD IS A MEDIUM TO EXPRESS HATE; ITS NOT JUST A WORD. Victims of hate…Racism…aren’t hanging on to stuff like it’s recent pain! HATE IS HURTFUL, AND RACISM IS USED TO KEEP VICTIMS OF ETHNOCENTRICITY DOWN. You’ve shown your own Ethnocentricity becuase you don’t believe the use of the N-word is all that serious. Read some books!
Comment by JRico — November 4, 2007 @ 7:44 pm
The definition of the “N” word that I grew up with is: a person of any race or origin regarded as contemptible, inferior, ignorant, etc. It’s a very strong word and has gained negativity over the past century by being linked to only one race. I hate hearing the word and wish I never had to hear it again. Dog made a huge mistake, I’m sure he is well aware of it and is trying to make amends. Tucker caused a great deal of pain to his entire family. Many of his family members are on Dog the Bounty Hunter. He has effectively put them all out of work. What becomes of them and their families now? Everyone is so concerned about discrediting Dog they have lost site of the big picture. People fight and say things all the time that they wish they could take back or hadn’t said. Because Dog is on TV, it enabled his son to make some extra cash by selling the taped conversation. We don’t know the whole story of what led up to the taped conversation. Tucker made bad choices in the past and perhaps his dad was just trying to open his eyes to reality. If Tucker had not taped the conversation, no one would have known Dog ever used the word; would everyone be okay with it because they were ignorant to it? We grow and learn throughout our whole life. Dog has more growing to do as does his son Tucker.
It’s time to move past this and let the healing begin.
Comment by Connie — November 4, 2007 @ 10:03 pm
This comment section is getting entirely too inflammatory. This is a celeb site, not CNN or Hannity and Colmes or Jerry Springer. We do occasionally debate serious issues, but this particular session is getting out of hand.
If you want a racial debate, please find a different, more appropriate forum. This is not the place for heated debate.
Just for the record, one more time:
I don’t like the “N” word.
I don’t use the “N” word.
I don’t want to use the “N” word.
I don’t like racial slurs of any kind, whether directed at whites, blacks, Latinos, Asians, American Indians, or any other race/nationality/person.
I don’t think Dog is a racist because of one incident.
I don’t think he should have his entire career thrown in the dumper because of one incident, captured by a revengeful son.
I do think Dog deserves censure or punishment of some sort, and then given a chance to start over.
This subject is now closed.
Comment by k — November 4, 2007 @ 10:06 pm