‘Brother’ crack rankles group
A national autism advocacy group is demanding an apology from CBS over a disparaging remark a contestant on the reality show “Big Brother” made about people with the disorder.
On that episode, a contestant named Adam, who claims to work for an autism foundation, said he would spend his winnings on a hair salon for people with developmental disabilities “so retards can get it together and get their hair done.”
His partner, Sheila, told him: “Don’t call them that.”
Adam responded: “Disabled kids. I can call them whatever I want. I work with them all day, OK?”
The show’s website describes him as a 29-year-old public relations manager from Delray Beach, Fla.
There was no immediate response Monday to a call seeking comment from CBS. “Big Brother” also has been condemned for contestants’ remarks on incest, race, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Some contestants have been removed after incidents that were deemed violent or racist.
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