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Prominent Twitch streamer, NICKMERCS, finds himself in the middle of a storm following a controversial tweet in response to a Pride Month-related incident.
The fallout resulted in a blend of backlash and support, culminating in Call of Duty (CoD) removing his skin from the game. Here’s a detailed rundown of the controversy.
NICKMERCS’ Unexpected Tweet Stirs Controversy
NICKMERCS, known for his exceptional performance in shooter games like Call of Duty and Apex Legends, enjoys a large viewership of over 20,000 fans in each of his streams.
A tweet he posted on June 7, in response to an incident at a school recognizing Pride Month, sparked controversy.
He responded to the report of a brawl and three subsequent arrests by tweeting, “They should leave the little kids out of it.
That’s the real issue.” This comment swiftly attracted criticism, with many labeling him as a “bigot” and characterizing his tweet as “anti-LGBTQ“.
Critics argued that NICKMERCS’ tweet suggested teaching children about sexuality was tantamount to grooming. They stressed the importance of Pride Month and its recognition in schools.
However, NICKMERCS also received support, particularly from those acknowledging his recent entry into parenthood.
They argued that it’s the parents’ prerogative to decide when and how to have these conversations with their children.
NICKMERCS Responds but CoD Takes Action
In his subsequent stream, NICKMERCS addressed the controversy, stating that he did not intend to offend anyone and that his tweet was not anti-gay.
He apologized for causing chaos in the responses of esports caster Puckett, whose tweet he had originally replied to.
However, he stood by his initial statement and refrained from offering an explicit apology for the tweet itself.
In the aftermath of NICKMERCS’ response, Activision removed his operator bundle from Call of Duty, citing “recent events” and emphasizing their focus on celebrating PRIDE.
This decision elicited mixed reactions, with some players vowing to stop playing the game while others commended Activision for their action.
NICKMERCS Expresses Gratitude and Receives Solidarity
Following the removal of his operator, NICKMERCS issued a statement thanking those who supported him through the controversy.
He did not directly address the situation but underscored his love for all and assured his followers that there was no hate in his heart.
In a surprising twist, fellow streamer TimTheTatman publicly requested that CoD remove his skin as well, in a show of solidarity with NICKMERCS.
He stated that it felt wrong for him to have his skin in the game when NICKMERCS’ had been removed. Activision complied with his request, removing both operator bundles from the game.
Aftermath of the Controversy: New Followers and NICKMERCS’ Return to Streaming
Despite some stating they were unfollowing NICKMERCS, the controversy appeared to have drawn more attention to his profile. He gained around 50,000 new Twitter followers in the aftermath of the controversy.
After a break from streaming and social media, NICKMERCS returned on June 18, confirming his return to streaming.
Whether he will address the controversy again or move forward as if it is behind him is yet to be seen.
Regardless, the controversy has shed light on the significance of navigating social and political conversations carefully within the gaming community.
