Outrage Over ABC-TV Motown Program

A coalition of prominent African American organizations and leaders are demanding that the American Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) remove entertainer Justin Timberlake as co-host of "Motown 45," the upcoming ABC-TV special.  Outraged over the selection of Timberlake to co-host this musical celebration, the coalition is launching a national e-mail, fax and phone campaign against ABC to protest Timberlake's inclusion in the Motown tribute.

Motown has a proud and historic legacy of being one of America's greatest musical institutions.  It has launched the careers of some of the most prominent  African American artists in recording history including Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and The Supremes, Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, The Four Tops, The Commodores, Lionel Ritchie, The Tempations and the Jackson Five.  "The selection of Timberlake as co-host of this Motown special is a cultural insult to the black community," says Najee Ali, Executive Director, Project Islamic HOPE.   "This special, celebrating the success of the legendary music label, should not be compromised in the pursuit of a crossover audience."

In addition, Timberlake's recent handling of the Super Bowl incident has been met with harsh criticism in the black community.  He immediately distanced himself following his performance with Janet Jackson and failed to accept his responsibility in the "wardrobe malfunction."  "I mean I was completely shocked and appalled, and all I could say was, 'Oh, my God, Oh, my God,'" Timberlake told reporters at a recent Grammy rehearsal.

"We cannot support Justin Timberlake co-hosting Motown 45," says Ali.  "We are asking concerned citizens to call, fax and email ABC-TV in protest."

Call (818) 460-7777, e-mail and send your letters to:

Alex Wallau
President
ABC Television Network
500 South Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521
alex.wallau@abc.com

Lloyd Braun
Chairman
ABC Entertainment Television Group
500 South Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521
lloyd.braun@abc.com

Andrea Wong
Senior Vice President
Alternative Series and Specials
ABC Entertainment
500 South Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521
andrea.wong@abc.com