Written by Dante Uzel on 17 October 2024 23:02
Zack Hoyt, known as Asmongold, is at the center of controversy again after mocking hurricane Katrina survivors and defending slurs. Recent comments about the Gaza conflict led to widespread backlash and a ban from Twitch.
Following a livestream where he made incendiary remarks about Palestinians, Hoyt was suspended. Twitch typically doesn’t disclose reasons for bans, but a representative stated, “We take enforcement action when there are violations of our community guidelines, including our hateful conduct policy.” During his stream, Hoyt said, “I don’t give a fuck. They’re terrible people,” and described Palestinians as an “inferior culture.” This prompted calls for his ban, leading to the deactivation of his alternate channel, Zackrawrr.
Reactions from other streamers highlighted the insensitivity of his comments, particularly given the ongoing crisis in Gaza, which has seen significant loss of life. Daniel Ahmad commented, “What’s sad is millions of Americans actually believe this about black and brown people outside of the global north,” while others criticized Hoyt’s lifestyle.
More:DCB Sports to Acquire Guild Esports
Hoyt’s business partners also spoke out. Tips Out, COO of OTK (the media company Hoyt co-founded), highlighted the dehumanizing language used by Hoyt, likening it to historical justifications for violence and genocide. Following the backlash, OTK announced that Hoyt would be stepping away from his roles at the company.
On Wednesday, Hoyt released an apology video, expressing remorse for his comments and announcing his decision to step down from leadership roles at OTK and Starforge Systems. “I look back at some of the things that I’ve said and done... and there have been ways that I’ve communicated and ways that I’ve acted, that are indefensible. Looking back on it, it’s just disgusting,” he said.
While some praised his accountability, the long-term impact on his career remains uncertain. In a subsequent Reddit post, he stated, “I’m not changing anything other than trying to be more positive and less mean-spirited,” despite opening with a reference to a slur.
Tags: Asmongold
Related news
