Washington: An American television network in Spanish-language announced that it had fired a presenter for comments in which he compared Michelle Obama, the first lady of US, to a character in the film ‘Planet of the Apes’.
Rodner Figueroa was made the remark during an appearance on the popular talk show ‘El Gordo y La Flaca’.
This was a day before the discussion regarding the work of a make-up artist who used to copy the appearance of famous people.
Mr Figueroa said in Spanish that Michelle Obama looked just like she was part of the cast of the film “Planet of the Apes’.
The controversial comparison had quickly drawn global attention as it was an accusations of racism.
According to the statement from Miami-based Univsion network, the comments made by Rodner Figueroa regarding US First Lady Michelle Obama were completely condemnable, but in no way would reflect either the values or views of the Univision.
As an aftermath of the incident, Mr Figueroa was immediately terminated from the existing contract with the television network.
Mr Figueroa had served as a fashion expert in Univision, among other roles, and he was seated next to the two main hosts of the show Raul De Molina and Lili Estefan when he made the remark.
When Rodner Figueroa made that controversial comment, Ms Estefan was responded quickly with words what he was saying while Mr De Molina interjected the discussion by saying that Michelle Obama was really attractive.
After that, Mr Figueroa, in an open letter to the US First Lady posted on the website Latin World Entertainment, wrote in Spanish that his comments were not directed to her but toward the make-up artist who had sought to replicate her look.
He had also added that he was felt ashamed, and would like to apologize since there was no excuse for a professional like him for such an interpretation which might develop offensive and racist thoughts.

Video on comments made by Mr.Figueroa