Imus Again Using Cancer Charity To Deflect Away Criticism

SAINT IMUS RETURNS

Up To Old Tricks, Uses Cancer Charity To Bolster Image







For years, whenever Don Imus was fending off criticism over the content of his show or creepy personal antics, his elitist defenders always had a ready answer: "that may be, but he sure does a lot for kids with cancer", or something to that effect.

The I-Man's insider pals didn't come up with that excuse on his own: he was always quick to point to his charity work whenever needed (or to use it to help friends in a similar fix). It leads critics to wonder if he really cares about others, or if the Imus Ranch is all about public image.

Forgotten in the ridiculous "Second Chance For Imus" (that is about to wipe away a great deal of solid programming from ABC radio stations across the country) is his long history of mistreating others. That includes former co-workers both on the air and at the ranch.


And in perhaps his most cynical ploy ever, the crustmeister will kick off his first show with a benefit for the ranch, with tickets to see it going for $100 a pop. What a great way to avoid tough questions upon his return!

That has mainstream media pals salivating at the chance to once again prop up Saint Imus in an entirely unquestioning manner. From the New York Daily News:

Don Imus is picking up where he left off - raising money to help children with cancer.

When he was kicked off WFAN (660 AM) in April, he was in the middle of the annual WFAN Radiothon that benefits child-related charities, including Hackensack Medical Center, the SIDS Foundation and the Imus Ranch.

So when he returns Dec. 3 to start his new 6-10 a.m. gig at WABC (770 AM), he'll use the first show to raise money for the Ranch, by charging $100 a ticket to see that show live at Town Hall.

He and his wife, Deirdre, bring children with cancer to the ranch every year to ride, rope and work.

Meanwhile, Don's elitist liberal friends are lining up to appear on the new show, which is said to include a token African- American in some kind of as- yet undisclosed role. Again from David Hinckley's report:

His cast is expected back, though Bernard McGuirk's role may change. It was announced yesterday that Bob Gelb, eight-year producer of "Mike and the Mad Dog" on WFAN, has resigned to join Imus.

There could also be other new faces and a shuffled guest lineup. James Carville says he will be a first-day guest.

Just because Imus successfully brown- nosed a corporate exec into making a comeback, one that will probably harm his new employer's bottom line greatly, does not mean his past sins should be forgiven or forgotten. Forget "nappy-headed hos", this guy's jerkery goes back decades.


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