The set of the acclaimed comedyCommunitybecame ground zero for a storm of controversy, ignited by a single, devastating word. Chevy Chase, already known for a complex personality, reportedly experienced a dramatic unraveling after a racial slur he used during a heated outburst was exposed.
In 2012, Chase abruptly departed the show, leaving behind his character, Pierce Hawthorne, and a trail of tension. The official explanation centered on dissatisfaction with his character’s storyline, but the truth, as revealed by director Jay Chandrasekhar, was far more volatile. He was directing the day Chase’s behavior led to a co-star walking off set.
Yvette Nicole Brown, a key member of theCommunityensemble, was the immediate target of Chase’s words. Chandrasekhar recalls a history of racial friction between actors, culminating in Brown’s visible distress and immediate departure from the scene. The incident created an impossible impasse, halting production.
Producers desperately sought a resolution, requesting an apology from Chase to bring Brown back to work. His response was shocking – a justification rooted in a past relationship with Richard Pryor. Chase claimed he and Pryor had freely used racial slurs with each other, viewing it as a sign of affection.
“He goes, ‘You know, me and Richard Pryor, I used to call Richard Pryor the N-word, and he used to call me The Honky, and we loved each other,’” Chandrasekhar recounted. Despite pleas for a simple apology, Chase remained defiant, refusing to acknowledge the harm caused by his words.
When news of the “racial incident” broke inThe Hollywood Reporter, Chase reportedly suffered a complete breakdown. He stormed onto the set, consumed by rage and self-pity, convinced his career was over. “Who f*ed me over? My career is ruined! I’m ruined!” he allegedly screamed, before permanently leaving the show.
Initial reports indicated Chase had immediately apologized for his actions, attributing the outburst to frustration with his character’s arc. However, the documentary reveals a far more chaotic and damaging scene. While the slur wasn’t directed *at* Glover or Brown, its presence on set created an irreparable rift.
The fallout extended beyond the immediate incident. Chase’s already strained relationship withCommunitycreator Dan Harmon deteriorated further, culminating in a now-infamous wrap party where guests were encouraged to shout obscenities at the comedian. A subsequent, profanity-laden voicemail Chase left for Harmon only amplified the public discord.
Chase did make a single, brief appearance in a later season, but his departure after season four marked the end of his significant involvement withCommunity. The story serves as a stark reminder of the power of words and the lasting consequences of unchecked behavior, even among those celebrated for their comedic talent.
