This column has twice—here and here—taken the un-svelte Schultz to task for his hypocrisy in making repeated fat jokes at the expense of Chris Christie, culminating in calling the NJ guv a "fat slob." Media Bistro has reported [h/t Clerical Gal] that MSNBC prez Phil Griffin reprimanded Schutltz for his crude comment.
Apparently by way of non-apology apology, on his MSNBC show this evening, Ed admitted that he too was fat and would understand if others also considered him a "fat slob." Media Bistro has reported
I began to suspect something was afoot early in the show. On the one hand, Schultz launched into yet another long diatribe against Christie. After taking numerous solo shots at the NJ guv, Schultz brought in a NJ teacher of the year, who was happy to be described as "strongly against Gov. Christie." The pair proceeded to rake Christie over the coals, paying scant attention to the brutal budgetary problems facing the Garden State that have forced Christie to make reforms.
But—in stark contrast with previous shows—the fat jokes had demonstrably disappeared. And sure enough, in the tease for a subsequent segment, Schultz said "I admit that I'm fat." Then came this show-closer . . .
ED SCHULTZ: Before I say "that's the Ed Show, I'm Ed Schultz" I want to say this: there was a time in my life when I was 263 pounds but I've really worked at it and I'm down now to 247. But I want all of you to know that I'm not only fat, I have red hair. And growing up they really picked on red heads where I came from, and I'm not offended by any of you who think I'm a fat slob.
