Los Angeles (ENTRAVISION).–Univision has fired a popular Emmy-winning host for making derogatory comments about Michelle Obamaduring a live broadcast on Wednesday.
During a segment on the gossip show “El Gordo y la Flaca”. fashion commentator Rodner Figueroa said: “you know, Michelle Obama looks like she belongs in the cast of Planet of the Apes, the movie.”
The statement, aired live on the East coast but bleeped out of the West Coast broadcast, was picked up by #LMShow reporter Javier Cerianiand quickly spread on social media. Ceriani reported that Figueroa, known to audiences as “el Fashionista,” was fired by Univision.
The network confirmed the firing with a short statement today: “Yesterday during our entertainment program “El Gordo y La Flaca,” Rodner Figueroa made comments regarding First Lady Michelle Obama that were completely reprehensible and in no way reflect Univision’s values or views. As a result, Mr. Figueroa was immediately terminated.”
Asides from his fashion segments on “El Gordo y la Flaca” and red carpet events, Figueroa hosted Univision’s gossip show “Sal y pimienta” and appeared on “Nuestra belleza latina”, a reality beauty pageant that airs on Sundays. He was also a spokesperson for Colgate Optic White toothpaste, but that brand has yet to make a statement about his comments.
Update: Rodner Figueroa has issued a public apology to First Lady Michelle Obama. In the statement issued by his agent, he claims Univision publicly humiliated him after 17 years in the network and of leaking information about his firing.