In today's digital age, cancel culture has become a powerful force, often wielded with little regard for the nuances of human growth and redemption. Dr. Disrespect (Guy Beahm), a prominent figure in the gaming community, has recently found himself at the center of this phenomenon. This blog explores the hypocrisy of cancel culture, the importance of forgiveness, and why we should allow room for redemption.
Initially I was alarmed to hear about the news of Doc messaging a minor. Because of the source, I didn't really trust the delivery of the news when Cody, the grifter was lobbying the accusations for an ulterior motive. (See below)
At a glance, I already knew the intention behind the accusations was not for any moral and ethical standards. You're actually exploiting unsolicited news and mind you exploiting that minors business for the sake of gain. (A wild point often missed)
After I found out the timeline, and what happened with the alleged messaging of the minor, I immediately grouped it under as 'old news'. It doesn't take an investigative journalist to know that in 2017 and (probably prior) Doc was pretty messy. He owed up to it and moved on. If you didn't know in 2017 Doc cheated on his wife. I do not condone infidelity and adultery by any means. THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR BEING UNFAITHFUL. I believe out of all people Dr. Disrespect knows that and he took the time off to make the wrong things right. I have a really hard time subscribing to the cancel culture mob wanting to ruin him for a mistake he rehabilitated from.
Something worth discussing is the subject of the bureaucracy at Twitch. If people truly cared they would be pointing the finger at the powers that be who used the information to exploit a minor or a situation where a minor could of been in a compromising situation with an adult. But the purpose of cutting ties with Doc was not per say about facilitating a 'safe environment on their platform' it was to manipulate the system to eradicate a creators whose charisma and popularity overshadowed their platform. We all know Twitch is a cess pool for groomers and e girls and 80% of them are affiliates which means twitch pays then. I digress.
For more info on their nefarious course of action see here
Twitch is in the wrong for withholding these accusations over Doc's head till they deemed it right to weaponize. I don't know the context of the messages, but I do know that the intent was used to maliciously damage his career. Objective complete.
If people truly cared they would be pointing the finger at the powers that be who used the information to exploit a minor or a situation where a minor could of been in a compromising situation with an adult. When we discuss cancel culture or mob mentality, it often feels like we’re missing the point. We remove the ability to critically think. Many individuals engaging in these behaviors aren’t genuinely interested in progress, education, or change. Instead, they shout into echo chambers, surrounded by like-minded individuals. They frame their opinions as revolutionary, but often, they’re just echoing the most popular and safe opinions. Accusatory words (that will not be repeated here) should be saved for the offenders and perps.
How I justify my support of Doc:
We all have a past. If I were to find out the news about Doc messaging a minor and the action took place a week ago, a month ago, a year ago.... then I don't think I would personally be as empathetic to his situation. One of my biggest pet peeves in modern society is the ability to judge someone by their past and not their present...as if NO ONE HAS A PAST. I'm not judging 2024 Doc/Guy Beahm by 2017's Doc/Guy Beahm
A Brief Commercial On Faith:
My faith is a big part of who I am now, although this is a blog where culture and christianity collide I will refrain from veering too far into a faith discussion. Notwithstanding now that I am in my 30's I am grateful that I am not held to the standard of my past. I've not only been forgiven but I've been set free from it. i will be the first to tell you I was a problematic and troublesome individual with a lot of angst and a chip on my shoulder . But I'll be damned if someone tried to come at me with the things I did 10 years ago when not only did I change but I also am not the same person. If Doc and his family have reconciled his past together, I am no place to judge him for that. With that in mind I give a lot of grace to people who make an effort to change. Everyone deserves a chance to better their lives. Understand the importance of grace. There is a serious flaw in society that refuses to see someone apart from their mistakes.
If we create a society that doesn’t allow for redemption, where people are shunned for mistakes that haven’t caused irreversible harm, what’s the incentive to grow and change? Without room for forgiveness, even the best among us will eventually find themselves on the chopping block. Perspectives that are second nature today weren’t even on our radar five years ago. With effort, flawed views can be changed.
With Friends Like You.....
Also worth mentioning briefly is an additional casualty of cancel culture, friendships. I have seen an unnaturally swift exodus of supporters and sponsors from Doc's corner since the allegations. Friends who grifted from his following like Timthetatman, Nikmercs, Z Laner to name a few. (others not worth mentioning) Youtube demonetizing, even the NFL (who have no grounds of moral standards) disassociating themselves from the persona, image, and businesses of Doc at the drop of a hat (or a tweet) Every now and then, there's a great chance for a "call-in" moment - a moment for those who say they're loving, caring, inclusive, and educated to prove it. But somehow, they always seem to do the opposite when the preformative cancel mob come calling. Without a doubt, it is important to recognize that they have responsibilities to fulfill and interests to safeguard. However, a stark truth that must resonate with Doc's former colleagues is this: the fact that it wasn't them does not guarantee that it won't happen to them in the future.
Notable Redemption Arc Stories :
I have no concerns about Dr Disrespect returning. I am confident that he will make a strong comeback. I have witnessed similar situations with some of my favorite individuals, such as John Mayer and Robert Downey Jr
John Mayer:
Mayer forges deep connections with his audience through his unparalleled music, captivating, and hypnotic in every performance. His vibrant art showcases immense passion and unwavering commitment to creativity, cementing him as an icon to be archived in conversations for years to come.
In 2010, John Mayer faced significant backlash for making highly controversial remarks in interviews with Playboy and Rolling Stone. His use of racist language, including the N-word, and inappropriate comments about his exes, such as referring to Jessica Simpson as "sexual napalm," severely tarnished his reputation. Consequently, he had to take a step back and lay low for a period of time. John Mayer's remarkable resilience propelled him to rebuild his career with unwavering determination. He fearlessly addressed his setbacks by publicly apologizing for his controversial remarks and embarking on a reflective hiatus to foster personal growth. Embracing sobriety in 2016, he harnessed newfound focus to reignite his passion for music. By consciously maintaining a lower profile and steering clear of controversy, he effortlessly rekindled his connection with fans and meticulously restored his esteemed reputation.
RDJ:
Robert Downey Jr faced significant challenges due to his struggles with addiction, which led to multiple arrests and a damaged career. To rebuild, he committed to a 12-step rehab program, therapy, and practices like yoga and Wing Chun Kung Fu With the support of his wife and loved ones, he maintained sobriety and gradually regained the trust of industry professionals. Downey’s dedication to his recovery and his focus on his craft allowed him to make a remarkable comeback, culminating in his iconic role in Iron Man, Sherlock Holmes, and Tropic Thunder
In the End
Cancel culture often misses the mark by focusing on punishment rather than growth and redemption. Dr. Disrespect’s case highlights the need for a more forgiving and understanding society. Let’s strive to create a community that values genuine change and allows room for redemption. Doc obviously rubbed a lot of people the wrong way, his persona to be every 80's icon wrapped up in one 6 foot 8 frame with a 37 inch vertical leap and the black steel that drips down his back and bullet proof mullet. We will see you soon 2x.
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