KYLE GASS Says TENACIOUS D Will Return After TRUMP Joke Fallout: “We’re Gonna Come Back”

Tenacious D‘s Kyle Gass has spoken candidly about the backlash that followed his joke referencing the attempted assassination of then–U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump in July 2024.

For those unaware – it all started when there was an assassination attempt on Trump‘s life during a rally near Butler, PA on July 13, 2024. That same night, Tenacious D was playing a show in Sydney, Australia which was also Gass’ 64^th birthday. When asked to make a wish for his birthday, Gass responded: “Don’t miss Trump next time.”

Tenacious D vocalist and guitarist Jack Black quickly issued a statement saying he was blindsided by the comment, and didn’t feel right continuing their tour or any creative endeavors. Though he did note later that the band would probably return eventually.

In a new interview with Rolling Stone, Gass admitted the onstage remark was a “terrible judgment” and said he felt genuine panic as the controversy spiraled. Although the line drew laughter in the room, footage quickly spread online, triggering widespread outrage. Gass later apologized, calling the joke “highly inappropriate, dangerous, and a terrible mistake.”

The fallout was swift: Tenacious D canceled the remainder of their tour, Jack Black publicly put all future plans for the duo “on hold,” Gass‘ agent dropped him, and Australian senator Ralph Babet even called for the band to be deported. “I thought I was safe in the bubble,” Gass said, acknowledging in hindsight that it was clearly “too soon.”

“Once it was picked up, it just got worse and worse. It was a Defcon 2 for sure in the camp. And I did it. It was my fuck-up.”

Gass said he fully understood why Black had to distance himself at the height of the controversy, describing their partnership as “like a marriage.” After time and difficult conversations, the two resolved the situation privately. “We hashed it out,” Gass said. “You go through these ups and downs, and try to understand your partner.”

Tenacious D quietly resurfaced in late 2025 by contributing a cover of REO Speedwagon‘s “Keep On Loving You” to Good Music To Lift Los Angeles, a massive benefit compilation supporting wildfire relief efforts in California.

While no concrete plans for new music or touring have been announced, Gass remains confident about the band’s future. “We’re gonna come back,” he said. “It’s gonna be bigger than Oasis.”