Learning from Kramer
Michael Richards, the actor who played Kramer on the popular comedy television show Seinfeld, is unlikely to get many invites to comedy clubs in the future. His recent antics are all over the news.
Richards was heckled by audience members and responded by using very offensive and racist language. I debated posting a video of the incident but thought it would be in poor taste.
Richards's representatives did not return calls immediately after the incident. I'm not surprised as they were probably just as stunned when they saw a video of his 'performance'. In fairness, it was reported that Richards apologized.
Jerry Seinfeld made a statement saying he was "sick over this horrible, horrible mistake." I was a Seinfeld fan and thought Kramer was funny. Unfortunately, the show Seinfeld won't be the same when Richards appears on the screen.
Three observations. The first one being no matter how stressful the situation, always keep your cool. Whether you are a stand-up comedian or marketer. And no, losing your cool or being under the influence does not justify racism regardless of what your last name is.
Secondly, marketers should note that a brand (be it Seinfeld or Kramer) that took nine years to cultivate may have been damaged beyond repair by the ignorant actions of one person.
Finally, we will always have George.
