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At a Penn State-Ohio State football game on November 2, retired Philadelphia Eagles star Jason Kelce reacted in defense when a fan used a homophobic slur against his brother, Travis Kelce. The comment was also made to refer to Travis’s relationship with Taylor Swift, and Jason pulled the phone from the fan and slammed it to the ground. The video clips went viral in no time as they spread across the internet. Now, Penn State police have launched an investigation into the incident and Jason’s reactions have received both appreciation and criticism.
Travis, speaking on their podcast New Heights, addressed the situation and showed support for his brother while acknowledging the emotional impact these public attacks can have. “You had some clown come up to you and talk about your family,” Travis said, commending Jason for fighting back against hate speech. Indeed, while Travis felt that the incident got blown out of proportion online, he also believed Jason’s action was quite true in dedication and honesty. He agreed with many who thought Jason’s apology, which came on ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown, truly revealed that he was not delirious to look back at his own actions.
Jason was affected by the verbal attack. During the podcast, he expressed his frustration about the pejorative remark, since it had goaded him into reacting impulsively: “The word he used, it’s just so ridiculous… it got under my skin,” Jason explained, but meanwhile he confessed that going further and using strong language to respond wasn’t the right thing. He explained that, while understanding what consequences his actions would bring, it is time someone takes a stand against hate speech and using such language in public against his family members is uncalled for.
This incident has divided fans and commentators alike. Some feel that Jason’s act was justified in view of the despicable slur. Others are of the view that celebrities like Jason must learn to restrain themselves during any acrimonious wordplay. In addition, this brings into perspective how celebrities face the challenge of balancing private values with public image, along with family loyalty, in a highly visible environment.
The brothers have nevertheless provided notice that they are ready to move on, even as the investigation continues-a learning moment about managing fame and standing up for family.
