Kim Burrell seemed to refer to members at one of Pastor Brian Carn’s churches as “ugly” in a recent viral video. As of yet, much information on the video is lacking since the first uploads of the tape did not specify when or where it was shot.
In the video, the well-known gospel singer makes inflammatory remarks regarding churchgoers. Burrell made an observation concerning churchgoers and their financial situation. She implied that these folks were often broke. Throughout the talk, Burrell cracked many jokes regarding similar topics. Furthermore, for dramatic effect, the 49-year-old Houston native stopped after her quips. As shown in the video, several of the guests chuckled at her jokes.
What did Kim Burrell say during her sermon at Pastor Brian Carn’s church?
While the precise context of what seems to be a joke is unknown, the singer-songwriter mentioned the socioeconomic level and looks of churchgoers. Kim Burrell said,
“Sometimes, before we can become friends, we have to conduct an interview: How long have you been bankrupt? How often have you changed your name on your utility bill? How many of your invoices are in the name of your young cousin? Do you live in a house or a trailer?
She then said, in relation to being materialistic:
“It’s all about options.” Life is no longer the same. We’ve gone to church.”
She also thanked the participants for attending the church without the need for COVID-19 immunization or masks. During her speech, Burrell complimented Pastor Brian Carn, calling him “truth embodied.” However, she seemed to insult the churchgoers by referring to them as ‘ugly.’ Later in the film, she can be heard making further comments about the guests’ looks, but there is no wild cheering this time.
Kim Burrell said,
“No one wants to be told that, particularly when they already know… Most people aren’t outraged until they realize something negative in themselves, and then someone else notices it and says, ‘Oh, I noticed the ugly, too.’ Just thought I’d let you know.”
She went on to say:
“I haven’t picked someone yet to be ugly.” God is wonderful. God is magnificent. You all look fantastic. Much of you are wearing hats that hide most of it anyhow. “A toast to you.”
People are reacting to Kim Burrell’s video
Following the release of the video, the Everlasting Life singer faced backlash for what netizens believed to be cruel and harsh remarks. Several netizens also claimed that her Christian religion is no longer what she has displayed over the years.
Dayyyuum! Preacher Kim Burrell should be hired to play Ursula the Wicked Sea Witch because, whew chile, she is evil, mean AF, and ignant, down to the bone marrow. Yes, I said ignant. https://t.co/pJiwccmj5u
— 🧘🏽🆁🅴🅴🆂🅷🅰🧘🏽♀️ (@Radio_Reesha) July 19, 2022
I know people like Kim Burrell exist in the world, I’m not naive — but I was happier before I saw this and got more confirmation I didn’t need about how evil and divisive a person can be, especially when they’re preaching at a church. pic.twitter.com/ZOwAuD5L6L
— ᴘʀᴏ-ᴄʜᴏɪᴄᴇ ᴅᴜғғʏ🫐🇺🇦🌻🧡 (@darkblue1012) July 19, 2022
Kim Burrell’s explanation of the viral video
Burrell moved to Instagram to post a statement in which she sought to identify her comments as jokes. She also criticized the social media statements made against her in response to the church video’s comments. The singer-songwriter alleged that her statements were printed without context in order to spread slander against her.
Burrell highlighted the following in her statement:
“Please be cautious of what is written and stated (through video) about me, particularly if it includes untruths.” Slander and defamation are not tolerated, particularly when it involves my name, image, or brand. Pages with horrible comments and misleading narratives have been identified, reported, and hopefully silenced. Again, I regret if anybody believed my comedy was malicious, but I will not allow harassment, slander, or defamation of my character under any circumstances.”
This is not the first time the singer has been into trouble. Kim Burrell has previously faced backlash for statements she made toward the LGBTQ community in 2016.
