Tracy Morgan signaled his return to the spotlight with a surprise appearance at the Emmy Awards, but not everyone was pleased to see the comedian back on stage.
Morgan was involved in an horrific accident nearly 15 months ago which nearly killed him and tragically took the life of his friend and mentor, 62-ye ar-old James McNair.
McNair’s family are angry that Morgan, who received a standing ovation at the Emmys, didn’t mention their lost loved one in his speech.
His sister Pamela felt that Morgan could at the very least have acknowledged the family’s pain.
“I understand it’s been a great ordeal for Tracy over the last 15 months,” she said in an interview with the New York Daily News.
“I just feel in some form or fashion, he should have acknowledged my brother – his mentor – because he lost his life. Just take a minute along the way to acknowledge my brother. He has children, siblings, a big family – all bearing the same pain.”
McNair’s son Jamel claims Morgan has been avoiding the family since the accident and didn’t even turn up at a memorial held in McNair’s honour. He branded the comedian’s behaviour inexcusable.
“Being a celebrity doesn’t excuse you from human obligations,” wrote a clearly angry Jamel.
“You take the Emmy stage and give a speech and tell jokes in front of thousands of people. But you don’t show up to celebrate the life of your best friend ‘Uncle Jimmy Mack’ at his honor. Send a smoke signal, give a call, text, send a damn pigeon.
“There’s no excuse for this behaviour. My sister and I have yet to hear from Tracy Morgan and that’s real.”
Entertainment Reporter