An insider told Fox News that majority of top-level executives from several networks were not pleased with A&E placing Phil Robertson back in its hit television series "Duck Dynasty." The insider said the executives were irked over the network's rash decision to comply with fans' clamor to have Robertson back to the show.
The insider told FOX411, "Several high-ranking executives have expressed upset over the way this all played out. The network execs think that in allowing Phil to come back so quickly and seamlessly, without apology, sets a bad standard. The standard being that talent can say whatever offensive thing they want about gay people or other groups and get away with it. No consequences."
The controversial comment said by Robertson in his interview with GQ magazine got a lot of heat, especially from the LGBT community. When asked about his views on modern immorality, Robertson said, "It seems like, to me, a vagina -- as a man -- would be more desirable than a man's anus. That's just me. I'm just thinking: There's more there! She's got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I'm saying? But hey, sin: It's not logical, my man. It's just not logical."
Robertson was promptly suspended by A&E over his controversial remarks, but fans saw him in the reality series' TV premiere on Wednesday.
On the other hand, the premiere of the reality TV show could or could not be the sentiment of viewers regarding Robertson's beliefs. Daily Mail noted that the show only attracted 8.5 million viewers, which is a 28% drop compared to last season's premiere. Deadline Hollywood also said adult viewers aged 18 to 49 show a 33% decrease.
CEO of 5WPR Ronn Torossian told Fox News that the controversy surrounding Robertson and the show, despite overlooking moral standards, could pass. "Sometimes avoiding the major news as would have occurred had they fired him would have been more damaging to their brand then simply having Robertson continue on," Torossian added.
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