A significant part of “Bruno”‘s appeal is its pull-no-punches, “offend as many as possible” style. But Universal Studios felt that even Sacha Baron Cohen’s edgy brand of humor needs limits, and it has officially cut a scene involving La Toya Jackson from the movie.
The scene, which was filmed prior to Michael Jackson’s death and had previously been screened to industry reporters and critics, involved Bruno interviewing Jackson–who did not appear to be in on the joke. The interrogation included Cohen’s character asking pointed questions about the late Michael Jackson and even attempting to find his number on her phone. The short scene ended in raw, awkward, comedic fashion.
“Out of respect for the Jackson family, the filmmakers have decided to remove a small scene involving La Toya Jackson,” Universal said of the cut. “Bruno” releases on July 10.
