What did Kid Rock say on Fox News?

Kid Rock used the offensive R-word during his appearance on the "Jesse Watters Primetime" show on Fox News.

How did the Special Olympics respond to Kid Rock's use of the slur?

The Special Olympics, through its Chief Inspiration Officer Loretta Claiborne, condemned Kid Rock's use of the R-word, calling it deeply demeaning and harmful to people with intellectual disabilities. Claiborne urged Kid Rock to acknowledge the hurt caused and stand with the organization in rejecting the prejudiced language.

Why is the R-word considered offensive?

The R-word has a "long, painful history of being used to belittle and dehumanize" people with intellectual disabilities, according to the Special Olympics. The organization has worked to eliminate the use of the slur and promote greater understanding and respect for those with disabilities.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Special Olympics Condemns Kid Rock's Use of Offensive Slur

Special Olympics Condemns Kid Rock's Use of Offensive Slur

29 Oct

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Summary

Kid Rock used the R-word on Fox News
Special Olympics leader calls for him to acknowledge harm
Slur has a "long, painful history" of dehumanizing people

Special Olympics Condemns Kid Rock's Use of Offensive Slur

On October 24th, 2025, musician Kid Rock faced widespread criticism for using the R-word during an appearance on the Fox News show "Jesse Watters Primetime". In response, the Special Olympics has spoken out against his use of the derogatory slur.

In an open letter, Loretta Claiborne, the Chief Inspiration Officer of the Special Olympics, condemned Kid Rock's language, stating that the R-word "deeply demeans and harms people with intellectual disabilities." Claiborne, a seven-time gold medalist and the first Special Olympics athlete elected to the organization's international board, called on Kid Rock to acknowledge the hurt caused and stand with the Special Olympics in rejecting the prejudiced term.

The controversy over Kid Rock's remarks comes as the use of the R-word has seen a resurgence in the mainstream lexicon in recent years, despite a decline in the 2010s. Claiborne urged Kid Rock to turn the incident into a "statement of strength" and help lead a conversation towards greater understanding and respect for people with intellectual disabilities.