30 Rock has joined the growing list of TV series that have seen episodes removed from broadcast and streaming services for the use of blackface.
The satirical sitcom has had four of its episodes pulled from schedules, after NBCUniversal, series creator Tina Fey, and executive producer Robert Carlock backed the move.
The decision to stop the episodes from being aired or streamed comes amid an ongoing conversation about racial inequality in the US and around the world, prompted by the Black Lives Matter movement.
In a statement, Fey acknowledged that "intent is not a free pass for white people to use these images" and apologised for any "pain" the use of blackface had caused viewers.
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"As we strive to do the work and do better in regards to race in America, we believe that these episodes featuring actors in race-changing make-up are best taken out of circulation," she said.
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"I understand now that 'intent' is not a free pass for white people to use these images. I apologise for pain they have caused. Going forward, no comedy-loving kid needs to stumble on these tropes and be stung by their ugliness."
The episodes in question feature two examples of Jane Krakowski's character Jenna Maroney darkening her skin to appear Black, as well as a guest appearance from Jon Hamm in which his character spoofs a racist programme.
Related: Why a 30 Rock spin-off isn't going to happen as planned
In recent weeks, Netflix has removed episodes from the likes of The League of Gentlemen, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Little Britain. Chris Lilley's shows Angry Boys, Summer Heights High, We Can Be Heroes and Jonah from Tonga have all been pulled, too.
For more information on how you can support Black Lives Matter, please visit its official website or donate here. Readers can also donate to the UK anti-discrimination group Stand Up To Racism, and the Unite Families & Friends Campaign, which supports those affected by deaths in police, prison and psychiatric custody.
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![[GIF] Tina Fey](https://hips.hearstapps.com/digitalspyuk.cdnds.net/16/20/1463500406-giphy-3.gif?crop=0.506xw:1xh;center,top&resize=360:* "[GIF] Tina Fey")
