I really don't expect Fox to own up, or if they do it will be under the blanket of "we were only joking, sorry if you were offended" and once again we (Canadians) will come across as looking thin skinned.
But this went way beyond the typical, Igloo-living, dog-sled-driving, jokes that we usually are the butt of.
It will be interesting to see if anything comes of this.
OTTAWA — The Canadian government has demanded an apology from Fox News for "despicable" comments made on one of its late-night programs.
The government was incensed by a recent talk-show segment on the American conservative cable network that poked fun at Canada and the Canadian military.
Our Minister of National Defense is Peter McKay, the man who was once rumoured to have been having a relationship with Condi Rice.
"These are despicable, hurtful and ignorant comments," Dan Dugas, a spokesman for Defence Minister Peter MacKay, said Monday.
"No one is laughing and they owe Canada — and, more importantly, the families of each one of our fallen heroes — an apology for their ill-informed mistakes."
This story is really starting to take hold in Canada. It's front page at the CBCnews.ca and just about all the major newspapers, media outlets have jumped on with commentaries, etc. Even Conservatives are upset with David Frum stepping up and calling Fox out. Not like that means a whole lot, but still.
UPDATE: I got home just in time to update it. Fox host apologizes! It's like I predicted, "Sorry...you just don't get the joke". BULLSHIT. I don't believe anyone will actually fall for this type of apology.
"The March 17th episode of Red Eye included a segment discussing Canada's plan for a 'synchronized break,' which was in no way an attempt to make light of troop efforts," host Greg Gutfeld said in a statement issued Monday.
"However, I realize that my words may have been misunderstood. It was not my intent to disrespect the brave men, women and families of the Canadian military, and for that I apologize.
"Red Eye is a satirical take on the news, in which all topics are addressed in a lighthearted, humorous and ridiculous manner," he added.
CBC
UPDATE #2: There are consequences for your actions. Bensen's been dropped from a show in Edmonton
Edmonton Sun