The Hollywood Reporter has the up-to-the-minute rundown on the NFL players and Hollywood celebrities who are blasting President Trump over the National Anthem.
On Friday, the president criticized NFL players who kneel during the National Anthem. Trump said he would like to see an NFL owner, witnessing a player kneeling, say, ”Get that son of a bitch off the field right now, he's fired. He's fired!”
Trump followed up on Twitter: “If a player wants the privilege of making millions of dollars in the NFL, or other leagues, he or she should not be allowed to disrespect our Great American Flag (or Country) and should stand for the National Anthem. If not, YOU'RE FIRED. Find something else to do!"
Last season, free-agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick sat out the national anthem in protest of the treatment of African-Americans in America, according to Kaepernick, at the hands of police. Since then other players have protested in similar fashion. No team picked up Kaepernick's contract this season.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Saturday morning said in a statement that Trump's remarks showed a lack of respect for the game and players. The players' union also criticized Trump for the remarks. Green Bay Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy: "It's unfortunate that the President decided to use his immense platform to make divisive and offensive statements about our players and the NFL. We strongly believe that players are leaders in our communities and positive influences. They have achieved their positions through tremendous work and dedication and should be celebrated for their success and positive impact. We believe it is important to support any of our players who choose to peacefully express themselves with the hope of change for good. As Americans, we are fortunate to be able to speak openly and freely."
Several players criticized Trump on Twitter.
"The behavior of the President is unacceptable and needs to be addressed. If you do not Condemn this divisive Rhetoric you are Condoning it!!" said Richard Sherman of the Seattle Seahawks.
"It's really sad man ... our president is a asshole," said LeSean McCoy of the Buffalo Bills.
"Does anyone tell Trump to stick to politics, like they tell us to stick to sports? Smh," said Eric Ebron of the Detroit Lions.
Now long after, the hashtag #TakeAKnee was Twitter's top trend.
Celebrities began to weigh in on the issue.
Samuel L. Jackson: "So... How many Sons A' Bitches kneeling tomorrow??!! How many of Dotards boys firing Mothfukkas?? Odds??!!"
"He's not declaring war on NFL and NBA. Owners are his donors. He's declaring way against black people with opinions," director Ava DuVernay tweeted.
"To #TakeAKnee, it's not to dishonor fallen US vets. What service member gave up life so that cops could kill innocent Americans with impunity?" actor Jeffrey Wright tweeted.
"We’re not on the plantation anymore Chump. There will be no “buck breaking” out here. Fingers on the hand form a fist. #TakeAKnee ‘til free," tweeted Jesse Williams.