“We all know it wasn’t his first time”: Morgan Wallen Apologized for Using Racial Slur but Maren Morris Got Death Threats for Calling Him Out

Morgan Wallen, a prominent figure in the country music scene, has recently been at the center of controversy following his appearance on Saturday Night Live.

Known for his chart-topping hits and significant influence, Wallen’s career has been marked by both success and scandal.

His latest incident, which involved an abrupt exit from the SNL stage, has reignited discussions about his past behavior, particularly his use of a racial slur in 2021.

Wallen’s journey began with his participation in season 6 of The Voice, where he gained recognition and subsequently released his debut album, If I Know Me, in 2018.

His music quickly ascended the Billboard charts, establishing him as a key player in the country genre.

However, his rise to fame has not been without its challenges.

In 2021, Wallen faced backlash after a video surfaced showing him using a racial slur.

This incident sparked outrage across social media and within the music community, leading to widespread condemnation.

The fallout from the racial slur incident was significant.

Many artists, including Maren Morris, Kelsea Ballerini, and others, publicly criticized Wallen for his actions.

Maren Morris, in particular, became a vocal advocate against Wallen’s behavior, expressing her disappointment and concern over the normalization of such language in the industry.

Her stance, while commendable, came at a personal cost.

After speaking out, Morris received numerous death threats, targeting not just her but also her family, which left her feeling vulnerable and fearful.

Wallen’s recent appearance on Saturday Night Live was meant to be a triumphant return to the spotlight, promoting his upcoming album, I’m The Problem.

However, his performance was overshadowed by his hasty exit from the stage, which many fans found perplexing.

Instead of engaging with the cast and crew, Wallen left immediately after his performance, raising eyebrows and prompting speculation about his demeanor and professionalism.

A source close to the singer later clarified that Wallen did not intend to offend anyone and had simply followed his routine from rehearsals, but the incident fueled further discussion about his character.

The online reactions were swift and critical.

Fans took to social media to express their disappointment, highlighting that Wallen’s behavior seemed dismissive and ungrateful, especially given the platform SNL provides to artists.

One user pointed out the rarity of such an exit, stating, “In decades of watching SNL, I don’t think I’ve ever seen that.”

This sentiment resonated with many, who felt that Wallen’s actions reflected poorly on his commitment to the industry and his peers.

Maren Morris’s experience post-Wallen’s racial slur incident serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of speaking out against problematic behavior.

On a podcast, Morris recounted the fear and anxiety she faced after receiving threats, emphasizing that the backlash was not just directed at her but extended to her young son.

The situation highlighted the toxic environment that can arise when individuals challenge the status quo, particularly in industries like music, where loyalty to fellow artists often supersedes accountability.

Despite Wallen’s apologies and attempts to make amends, many remain skeptical of his sincerity.

His history of controversial behavior has led to a lack of trust among fans and fellow artists alike.

As he prepares for the release of I’m The Problem on May 16, 2025, the question remains whether he can truly learn from his past mistakes and evolve as an artist and individual.

The music industry is watching closely, and Wallen’s future may depend on his ability to navigate this scrutiny with humility and respect.

As discussions about Wallen’s behavior continue, it is crucial to recognize the broader implications of his actions.

The music industry must confront the systemic issues that allow such behavior to persist and foster an environment where accountability is paramount.

Artists like Maren Morris, who courageously speak out, play a vital role in pushing for change and holding their peers accountable.

The hope is that as Wallen moves forward, he will take the necessary steps to reflect on his actions, engage in meaningful dialogue, and ultimately contribute to a more respectful and inclusive music community.