Panthers Terminate PR Coordinator After Mocking Charlie Kirk Shooting

Lead The Carolina Panthers dismissed football communications coordinator Charlie Rock on Thursday after he posted an Instagram video mocking the recent fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.

Nut Graf Rock’s social media post sparked immediate backlash, prompting the Panthers to distance the organization from his actions and reaffirm their stance against violence. The incident highlights the sensitivity around political violence and employer expectations for professional conduct.

Video Sparks Controversy

• Rock shared footage of Kirk’s speaking event with the caption “are y sad? man said was worth it …” overlaid by the Wu-Tang Clan song “Protect Ya Neck.”
• The video appeared on Rock’s personal Instagram account, not an official team channel, but quickly drew criticism online.

Team Response In an official statement on X, the Panthers emphasized that “the views expressed by our employees are their own and do not represent those of the Carolina Panthers. We do not endorse violence in any form. We take this situation very seriously and have addressed it accordingly with the individual”.

Personnel Action

• Rock, who joined the Panthers as a PR intern last year and was promoted to communications coordinator, was informed of his termination on Thursday.
• The Panthers confirmed he is no longer affiliated with the organization but provided no further details on his departure.

Ongoing Silence Requests for comment from Rock have not been answered as of Friday morning. His public profile has been deactivated, and no apology or explanation has been issued.

Broader Implications This firing underlines the professional risks associated with personal social media activity, especially when it involves sensitive topics like political violence. Organizations increasingly monitor employees’ online behavior to protect their public image and values.