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Autism Group to CBS: Fire That Retard!

Posted Feb 18th 2008 11:57AM by TMZ Staff

Some idiot on "Big Brother 9" has irked more people than usual by referring to people with autism as "retards." Moron.
Click to read the letter!
TMZ has obtained this letter from John Gilmore, Executive Director of Autism United, to Viacom bigwig Sumner Redstone and CBS, demanding that they take action after a segment aired on Wednesday's show featuring Adam Jasinski making the unfortunate remark. According to the letter, Gilmore claims CBS made a "conscious choice" in running the quote -- and used it for "their own personal goals."


The organization calls for "Big Brother 8" (oops) to be canceled, and expects an apology to people with autism. Gilmore also tells TMZ they've contacted the show's advertisers.

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46. Not only is this person SO off base with his comments; he's also a total scam artist! He claims to work for an organization THAT DOESN'T EXIST! He's doing all of this for profit; CBS is doing all of this for profit; it's the American way isn't it? It's not about being "PC". It's about being a decent human being and remembering one simple thing - Karma's a BITCH!

Posted at 12:54PM on Feb 18th 2008 by Lori

47. He scares me more with his BUG EYES than what he says!

Posted at 12:54PM on Feb 18th 2008 by dummy

48. Finally!! A REAL reason to complain!

Posted at 1:32PM on Feb 18th 2008 by Mike

49. I agree that what he said was totally wrong, but he does have the right to say whatever he wants. That being said, if I was his boss he wouldn't have a job when he comes home. What he said and the position he holds are in direct contradiction to each other, so even though I don't think he should be kicked off the show or the show canceled, he should be let go from his job. Also, doesn't he scare any kids he comes in contact with? Those bug eyes and his spa idea are enough to make me think he's a pedophile. Yuck.

Posted at 12:59PM on Feb 18th 2008 by a Mom

50. tmz takes disgusting to a whole new level. using the word "retard" as a pejorative in a story that purports to shame cbs for using the word is in and of itself sickening. you should stick to attacking drunk celebrities and avoid attacking those human beings who already face enormous adversity in their everyday life, the mentally challenged. just when i thought something was below tmz, you have sunk to a new depth. to call you bottom feeders is to do a disservice to bottom feeders.

Posted at 2:19PM on Feb 18th 2008 by ANNOYED

51. Forget Sumner Redstone and CBS. Who thinks they have any class in the first place?

I want to know where this jerk works so he can no longer profit from his association with the group of autistic clients.

Posted at 1:02PM on Feb 18th 2008 by Maxim

52. Wow.. what an idiot... if you work with special needs kids WOULDN'T YOU HAVE MORE COMPASSION AND KNOW NOT TO SAY THINGS LIKE THAT??? What an ass especially where he knew he was on camera. What a jerk!

Posted at 1:02PM on Feb 18th 2008 by ENK

53. Wouldn't expect any less from a show and network that allowed the winner from last season (Richard _ick head Donato) to call women _unts and threaten to rape them. And, then eagerly aired those clips too! CBS has no morals and class so nothing is surprising as they continue to lower their standards.

Posted at 1:06PM on Feb 18th 2008 by Appalled by the Stalkarazzi

54. Freak Linda: Autism is characterized by impaired social interaction and problems with (verbal and nonverbal) communication. It seems to fit you, you might want to look into it. Seriously. Of course, your problems obviously run deeper...lack of intelligence and maturity (unless you're in grade school, but even then I'd say there is still a problem).

Posted at 1:06PM on Feb 18th 2008 by CM

55. My nephew is on the autism spectrum. He is far from "retarded". Most kids with autism are not "Rainman". Unfortunately, most people, stupid people, think they are. And he wasn't retarded either.

I have no problem with the word "retarded" actually, I use it all th time. Just not in reference to people.

Posted at 1:23PM on Feb 18th 2008 by Kate

56. Wow! You will report on this (the comment about autistic children was uncalled for) but you will not report on your very own Parker stating on the feeds that he rates white women harder. He is coming off as a real jerk and I can't wait to see him go this week. He is also a racist and for that reason alone, he should be kicked off. I am sure you are just sooooo proud.

Posted at 7:47PM on Feb 18th 2008 by ihateparker

57. I'm done with CBS.

Posted at 1:13PM on Feb 18th 2008 by Me

58. I've caught two episodes so far. Note to Adam - my Autistic son is far more intelligent at age 9 than you could ever hope to be.

Posted at 1:13PM on Feb 18th 2008 by Mary

59. Adam needs to be fired for that I would with Adults with an integgalible disabity I would be fired on the spot for the use of that word. I have stooped watching bb since i heard that

Posted at 1:14PM on Feb 18th 2008 by cooky

60. Just For saying That You Are Going To End Up like that
You Will Be Punished!!!You Dumb ass ducheBag!!!
See You In Hell.a....

Posted at 1:24PM on Feb 18th 2008 by What ! this aint PUnk!!!

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