Actor James Woods boycotting the NFL over Colin Kaepernick controversy
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(Reuters)
James Woods will "never watch the NFL again."
The actor is furious with the way the NFL handled Colin Kaepernick's refusal to stand for the National Anthem.
"[The NFL] can do what they want, they can say whatever they think and I respect their Constitutional right to do it,” Woods told TMZ when asked his opinions on the controversy.
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He added, "I hope they respect my constitutional right never to watch the NFL again...I will never watch the NFL again, ever."
Earlier this week he tweeted, "I'm aware people have a constitutional right to disrespect our flag. Though I'm sure it will be futile, I will forever #BoycottTheNFL."
I'm aware people have a constitutional right to disrespect our flag. Though I'm sure it will be futile, I will forever #BoycottTheNFL
— James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) September 12, 2016
Kaepernick set off a firestorm of controversy when he refused to stand during the National Anthem prior to a preseason game last month.
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"I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color," Kaepernick told NFL Media. "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way."
Kaepernick was joined by teammate Eric Reid in kneeling during the National Anthem before the 49ers' game Monday night. Several other players around the league took part in similar protests on opening weekend.
Four Miami Dolphins players — Arian Foster, Jelani Jenkins, Michael Thomas and Kenny Stills — went down on their right knee as the Anthem was played before the Dolphins' 12-10 loss to the Seahawks in Seattle on Sunday. Model Kate Upton called the players' protest disgraceful.
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The Associated Press contributed to this report.