College Announcer Apologizes After Calling Plus-Sized Dance Team 'The New Face Of Ozempic'

Longtime Florida A&M band announcer Joe Bullard has apologized for referring to Alabama State University’s plus-sized dance team, the Honey Beez, as “the new face of Ozempic” during halftime at Saturday’s football game.

“I would like to sincerely apologize for my remarks during the Florida A&M University vs. Alabama State University football game this past Saturday,” he wrote. “My comments directed toward the ASU Honey Beez were meant as lighthearted banter, but I now recognize that they came across in a way that was hurtful and disrespectful.”

Bullard extended his “deepest and most heartfelt apologies” to not only the dance team, but to Alabama State’s Marching Hornets and the university as a whole. He also apologized to FAMU, his supporters and “anyone who was offended” by his rhetoric.

“Friendly competition and playful jesting have long been a part of HBCU [historically Black college and university] band culture, but I have come to understand that my words crossed a line,” he continued. “My intention was never to belittle or disrespect the incredible young people who represent our schools with such grace, talent, and pride. They are the embodiment of our culture, and they deserve nothing less than our full respect.”

Speaking as an “elder,” Bullard concluded by asking for the public’s forgiveness and expressing hope that the HBCU community can move forward.

Following Bullard’s remarks, FAMU President Marva Johnson issued a statement on behalf of the university addressing his comments and noting that she had spoken with ASU President Quinton T. Ross.

“I have spoken directly with President Ross to convey my regret and to reaffirm that such comments are unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Johnson said. “Florida A&M University is taking immediate steps to ensure accountability within our organization and to prevent incidents like this in the future.”

Ross also issued a statement of his own, expressing his support for the ASU dance team.

“I have personally spoken with the President of Florida A&M University and with the Commissioner of the Southwestern Athletic Conference to express my displeasure with these short-sighted comments, and they have both affirmed their agreement with my sentiments,” Ross said, calling Bullard’s statements “absolutely unacceptable.”