Joe Bullard Is Sorry for Body-Shaming a College Dance Team
Once again, a man is in trouble for publicly disparaging women’s bodies. On Saturday, the Florida A&M University Rattlers took on Alabama State University in a football game at the former’s Bragg Memorial Stadium. But when Alabama’s plus-size dance team, the Honey Beez, took the field for the halftime show, FAMU’s band announcer joked that the women are “the new face of Ozempic.” After a clip of the moment went viral on TikTok, the Tallahassee Democrat identified the man as Joe Bullard, who has served as the voice of FAMU’s storied Marching 100 for almost 50 years.
On Sunday, Alabama State — which became the first HBCU to create a plus-size dance team, in 2004 — posted a statement calling Bullard’s comments “absolutely unacceptable” and defending its dancers. “While we recognize the spirit of competition, there is no place for disparaging or demeaning remarks directed at our scholars,” Alabama State University president Quinton Ross wrote. “Honey Beez, please know that you are celebrated, valued, and admired for the joy that you bring to the Hornet Nation, and also for the bold and fearless way you represent the very best of ASU … Continue to shine, because your light cannot be dimmed by negativity.”
It’s unclear if Bullard will remain employed by FAMU, but the school’s president, Marva Johnson, certainly doesn’t seem happy about the incident. On Sunday, Johnson issued a public apology on behalf of the entire university, writing, “I extend my deepest and sincerest apologies to the Honey Beez, the Mighty Marching Hornets, President Quinton Ross, and the entire Alabama State University community.”
“The Honey Beez represent discipline, school pride, and their performance tradition is respected across the nation,” Johnson went on. “To have their dedication and artistry diminished by a thoughtless comment does not reflect the values or the respect we hold for our colleagues at Alabama State University or for the broader HBCU community.”
On Monday night — only after both school presidents had denounced his comments — Bullard posted a public apology on Facebook. “Friendly competition and playful jesting have long been a part of HBCU band culture, but I have come to understand that my words crossed a line,” he wrote. “My intention was never to belittle or disrespect the incredible young people who represent our schools with such grace, talent and pride. They are the embodiment of our culture, and they deserve nothing less than our full respect.”
“As an elder who has been blessed to serve and witness the brilliance of our students for many years, I humbly ask for your forgiveness,” Bullard added. “It is my hope that we can continue to move forward together in the spirit of unity, excellence and mutual respect, regardless of the road ahead.”
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