After Paris Attacks, Rob Lowe Facing Backlash Over Insensitive Tweets
Nov. 16 2015, Updated 7:49 a.m. ET
In the wake of Friday's terror attacks, which left at least 128 people dead, actor Rob Lowe is facing backlash after what fans are calling insensitive tweets.
Lowe's posts started off innocently enough when the star tweeted, "Vive La France! #Paris," in support of the victims of the mass shootings and suicide bombings. But then, Lowe took the opportunity to bash French President François Hollande, challenging his political decisions in the midst of the active crisis, saying "Oh, NOW France closes its borders. #Hollande."
But the actor, most famous for playing a gifted speech writer on the hit series The West Wing, did not stop there. He called Hollande's post-attack speech, "the worst translation of an important speech ever, or one of the worst ever given."
As RadarOnline.com reported, members of the extremist group Islamic State have since claimed responsibility for the attacks, which were executed by gunmen and suicide bombers at venues across Paris. As the world struggled to come to grips with the tragic loss of life, fans lashed out at Lowe for what they called his poorly-timed criticisms of the French leader. "Probably not the best time to be cracking jokes," one tweeter posted, with others calling Lowe "insensitive" and "heartless."
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However, the Grinder star brushed off the fans' disgust, firing back with a healthy dose of righteous indignation. "Wow. For you trolls out there, the phrase 'Vive La France' is the traditional expression of SUPPORT for France. Don't misinterpret my words," he responded, adding, "Lived in France, and spend a ton of time there. Been in that stadium. This is all so devastatingly sad for a place I love. #FrenchPrayers."