A pre-show host for a popular American talk show has ignited controversy after making a racially insensitive comment during a recording session involving the K-pop sensation BTS.
TMZ reported on Thursday that Seth Herzog, the warm-up comedian for The Tonight ShowStarring Jimmy Fallon, faced backlash for cracking an offensive joke while BTS was on set for their appearance.
Herzog reportedly asked the audience, Is anyone here from North Korea? No? Nobody? The remark was quickly interpreted by audience members as a racist jab directed at BTS, prompting immediate criticism.
According to inside sources cited by TMZ, Herzog has since apologized to the BTS members for the incident. The report also states that high-ranking network executives have addressed the situation with Herzog. However, Herzog’s representatives have not yet issued an official statement.
Herzog is a New York-based comedian who regularly serves as the warm-up act for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
BTS’s highly anticipated group appearance on NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon is scheduled to air on Friday (March 27) at 12:35 p.m.