Is figure skater Johnny Weir too much for the Stars on Ice tour? Weirwho competed in the 2010 Winter Olympics and finished sixthtold the TV entertainment-news show Access Hollywood that Stars on Ice has barred him from competing because he is not "family-friendly" enough, Philly.com reported.
"I totally understand that I am a little outrageous," he said. "But I really wish I had the chance to perform for the American fans."
In a statement, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation ( GLAAD ) President Jarrett Barrios said, "By choosing not to bring the performances and talent of Johnny Weir to American audiences, Stars on Ice is reinforcing an unfortunate double standard that is too often applied to gay athletes and athletes perceived to be gay." Weir has not publicly discussed his sexual orientation.
The public-relations team involved with Stars on Ice sent to Windy City Times the entire statement it sent to GLAAD. It reads, "We are disappointed that there is untrue and inaccurate information being disseminated. Please be assured that the 'gender identity and sexual orientation' of cast members has never been a consideration in the selection of tour performers.
"Stars on Ice recognizes Johnny Weir is a talented athlete and we appreciate the contributions he has made to the international figure skating community throughout his career.
"The current cast of the Stars on Ice tour includes very talented performers including the Olympic Gold medalist, Evan Lysacek and the current U.S. National Champion, Jeremy Abbott. While Stars on Ice wishes it could accommodate many more talented skaters as part of our cast, the fact is we cannot sign every skater.
"We encourage GLAAD to update its blog posting to include this important and accurate information about Stars on Ice.
"Thank you again for contacting us with your questions and be assured that the comments mentioned regarding the Stars on Ice tour are simply not accurate."
The tour is scheduled to stop at Rosemont's Allstate Arena Saturday, May 8, at 7:30 p.m.