GREENVALE, NY - JANUARY 09: Morrissey performs at Tilles Center for the Performing Arts on January 9, 2013 in Greenvale, New York. Credit: Getty Images
After finding out the stars of the hit show "Duck Dynasty" would be appearing on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live," indie artist Morrissey promptly cancelled his performance. The former Smiths frontman and animal rights activist said he couldn't risk "being alongside people who, in effect, amount to animal serial killers."
A&E's "Duck Dynasty" reality show follows a Louisiana family with a business selling duck hunting products. TheBlaze recently spoke with Duck Commander CEO and the main character of the show, Willie Robertson, about everything from guns, faith and his trademark bandana.
Morrissey issued the following statement announcing the cancellation:
"Morrissey is thankful for being invited to perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live tomorrow, February 26. However, he cannot morally be on a television program where the cast members of Duck Dynasty will also be guests. Morrissey would be honored to play the show, if Duck Dynasty were removed."
"As far as my reputation is concerned, I can't take the risk of being on a show alongside people who, in effect, amount to animal serial killers. If Jimmy cannot dump Duck Dynasty then we must step away," the singer added.
In this May 9, 2012 photo, from left, Willie Robertson, Korie Robertson, Phil Robertson, Miss Kay Robertson and Si Robertson pose at the A&E Networks 2012 Upfront at Lincoln Center in New York. The Robertsons star in the A&E reality series "Duck Dynasty." (AP Photo/Starpix, Kristina Bumphrey)
The producers of "Jimmy Kimmel Live" reportedly attempted to compromise with Morrissey and even offered to tape his performance, but the singer didn't budge. The cancellation became official on Monday. In his absence, the show has booked the Denver band Churchill.
A person familiar with the Kimmel show's plans confirmed that Morrissey was to appear. The person lacked authority to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.
The person says Morrissey's performance will be rescheduled.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
UPDATE:
The crew had a hilarious appearance on the show last night and responded to the controversy with a vegan commercial. Watch it all here.
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