Russell Simmons tries to buy ads during 'All American Muslim'In the aftermath of Lowe's Home Improvement stores pulling their ads from broadcasts of "All American Muslim," hip-hop entrepreneur Russell Simmons stepped in to attempt to buy some of the ad time himself.
Lowe's had pulled their ads after a conservative Christian group contacted the retailer, calling the show a "clear and present danger to American liberties and traditional values." Shortly after, Lowe's yanked the ads, saying that the show was a "lightning rod" and issued a statement that said in part, "we believe it is best to respectfully defer to communities, individuals and groups to discuss and consider such issues of importance."
Simmons, who is a Buddhist, first reacted on Twitter, calling the move "the most horrible s---," and then later tweeeting his support for the show, and that he was "trying to buy ads during #AllAmericanMuslim airing this Sunday, but now they are saying they are sold out. I will keep trying..."
A rep for TLC confirms that Simmons did indeed reach out and despite Lowe's move, availability of ad time was a problem. TLC issued a statement, showing its support for the show, which is in its first season. "We stand behind the show 'All American Muslim' and we're happy the show has strong advertising support."
TLC and Simmons aren't the only ones standing behind the show, however. USA Today columnist Souheila Al-Jadda was among those in the media defending the show, and Time columnist James Poniewozik slammed Lowe's