Paul Morigi/Gety Images; Johnny Louis/WireImageUnivision has fired a popular network talk show host after he made derogatory comments about Michelle Obama on air.
Rodner Figueroa was on the program El Gordo Y La Flaca when he pointed to a photo of the first lady and said, "Mind you, you know that Michelle Obama looks like she's part of the cast of Planet of the Apes, the film."
Figueroa made the controversial statement during a segment on makeup transformations alongside makeup artist Paolo Ballesteros—who has become Instafamous for his ability to make himself look like celebrities using different makeup techniques.
The show's other host, Raúl de Molina, appeared shocked by the racist remark and did his best to smooth things over with several complimentary comments about Obama.
And understandably, it didn't take long for social media to lash out after hearing Figueroa's comments during the show. Nor did it take too much time for the network to fire him.
As of now, Figueroa has yet to speak publically about his comments. In addition to his appearances on El Gordo Y La Flaca, he is also the co-host of Sal Y Pimienta.
Univison, who stayed quiet at first, released the following statement this morning:
"Yesterday during our entertainment program El Gordo y La Flaca, Rodner Figueroa made comments regarding First Lady Michelle Obama that were completely reprehensible and in no way reflect Univision's values or views. As a result, Mr. Figueroa was immediately terminated."