When satire goes too far?

A late-night Fox News TV broadcast recently caused controversy when its panelists mocked Canada:

Defense Minister Peter MacKay is demanding an apology from Fox News after a panel on of one of its late-night programs made “disgusting” comments about the Canadian military.

In the four-minute segment, Gutfeld asked the other three members of his panel: “The Canadian military wants to take a breather to do some yoga, paint landscapes, run on the beach in gorgeous white Capri pants. … Isn’t this the perfect time to invade this ridiculous country? They have no army!” (CTV News)

On Friday, four more Canadian peacekeepers were killed in Afghanistan, bringing the total Canadians killed during the country’s service in that country to 116. Popular Canadian political satirist Rick Mercer commented that “If you’re going to do satire, three of the most important rules are you have to tell the truth, you can’t be a bully and don’t be [a jerk]. Being a bully is not satire.” (Globe & Mail)

• The full video of the four minute segment from Fox News’ 3am “Red Eye” program has been posted on YouTube.

What do you think of this segment? Is an apology necessary? Can some leniency be given due to the fact this late night talk show features comedians and other philistines?

From:thelife.com