(journal-isms) Filmmaker Tyler Perry has demonstrated that the news media have underestimated how popular his films are among African Americans, and now he has taught a Sacramento television station not to underestimate the wrath of his fans. Entertainment reporter Mark S. Allen of KOVR-TV's "Good Day Sacramento" apologized to viewers on Friday after receiving at least 13,000 complaints from fans of Perry and Janet Jackson, a star in Perry's latest film, "Why Did I Get Married?" over an Oct. 11 interview that the "Good Day Sacramento" hosts did with the two entertainers. "I was a jerk, an absolute jerk," Allen said. As the station, a CBS affiliate, reported, "Hosts Marianne McClary, Nick Toma and entertainment reporter Mark S. Allen stayed on topic, at least for the first half of the interview. Later on, eager for the chance to finally ask the questions that had burned in his mind for four years, Allen fired away. "'Hey, Janet, anything happen to you at the Super Bowl?' asked Allen. "Immediately, Jackson appeared to have problems with her earpiece while Perry quickly jumped in, trying to change the subject. But Allen wouldn't let up. "Jackson remained mum, sitting quietly, while Perry ran interference during the questioning. Allen repeatedly tried to get an answer from her on the notorious wardrobe malfunction, but none was forthcoming." After the show, Perry fans sprung into action. "I had to maintain my composure because we were live on the air. I didn't let her speak," Perry said in an Oct. 14 note to fans posted on his Web site. "I kept jumping in because it was just so unfair to her. I have not seen Justin Timberlake attacked like that. I wasn't going to let them do that to her. Believe me when I tell you — Janet worked so hard on this film. She deserved more respect from this man than that! We both did."

Join BBN for free to post a comment. If you already have an account, please login here to post a comment. You will be returned to this page after logging in.