Brian Williams sparks outcry when he compares Obama speech to Richard Pryor delivery

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Fox 411: Brian Williams sparks outrage with comments about Obama

During an MSNBC broadcast, Brian Williams compared a President Obama speech to highly lauded and controversial late comedian Richard Pryor, sparking outcry on social media, many calling the comment racist.

Williams, who was suspended from “Nightly News” duties last year for misrepresenting anecdotes from his coverage during the Iraq War in 2003, took aim at Obama’s speech during his campaign appearance with Hillary Clinton.

“The president was being urged by one member of the crowd to preach,” said Williams during the broadcast. “He seemingly tried to at one point — borrowing almost a Richard Pryor delivery to deliver the degree of his disgust and disdain for the other side, the comments clearly aimed at Donald Trump.”

Twitter exploded with outraged viewers who called the statement racist and labeled Williams as a “bigot.” One person said he “proves his white privilege and ineptness” with the recent comments, and others accused him of disrespecting President Obama.

Williams is no stranger to controversy. Along with his 6-month suspension, he’s been called out for several inconsistencies in the past.

Williams moved to MSNBC after he was let go from NBC following his suspension. MSNBC did not immediately respond to Variety‘s request for comment on Tuesday.