MSNBC Suspends Ed Schultz for “Unacceptable” Comments

Liberal host calls his own comments about Laura Ingraham "vile"

Liberal TV host Ed Schultz has been suspended without pay for one week by MSNBC for “unacceptable” remarks he made about a conservative pundit on his radio show, the network said in a statement on Wednesday.

The host of “The Ed Show” had drawn fire after referring to commentator Laura Ingraham as a “right-wing slut” during his syndicated radio broadcast on Tuesday.

Among those calling for MSNBC to suspend its star was The Women’s Media Center, a nonprofit founded by Jane Fonda and Gloria Steinem, Politico reported.

“I used vile and inappropriate language when talking about talk show host Laura Ingraham,” said Schultz in a lengthy on-air apology Wednesday night. “It was wrong, uncalled for and I understand the severity of what I said. I apologize to you Laura and ask for your forgiveness.”

The outspoken MSNBC pundit also offered regrets to his wife, his children and grandchildren, and his staff.

“I have embarrassed my family and I have embarrassed this company,” Schultz said. “This is the lowest of low for me.”

“MSNBC management met with Ed Schultz Wednesday afternoon and accepted his offer to take one week of unpaid leave for the remarks he made yesterday on his radio program,” the network said in a statement. “Ed will address these remarks on his show tonight, and immediately following begin his leave. Remarks of this nature are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

News of the move was first reported by Politico and Mediaite.

Ingraham responded to the suspension by writing on Twitter, "Oh great, now his ratings will go up." Earlier, she'd slammed Shultz on her Facebook page, calling him a misogynist. 

Schultz will return to his show on June 6, Fishbowl DC reports. Thomas Roberts filled in for Wednesday night's show.

Watch the full apology below.

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