A top Apple executive who was sacked in the autumn for joking on TikTok that he “fondles big-breasted women” said he was “humiliated” by the company’s decision.
Tony Blevins worked for Apple for 22 years before being fired in September 2017 in response to a popular TikTok video. TikToker @ItsDanielMac recorded Blevins exiting his Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren with his wife at a car event on September 5 and asked him about his occupation.
“I race automobiles, play golf, and fondle women with large breasts. “However, I take weekends and important holidays off,” answered Blevins. In addition, if you’re interested, I have an excellent dental plan.
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Blevins apologized to anyone who was hurt by his comment, but he believed Apple had made a mistake by terminating him.
“In around 25 seconds, 22 years evaporated,” Blevins said. “I was completely astonished. My entire existence has been Apple. I endeavored to be the most devoted individual.”
Blevins continued, “They humiliated me and harmed my reputation.”
Apple denied the Wall Street Journal’s request for comment on Blevins’s statements.
Tony Blevins stated that he attempted to have the TikTok removed.
Blevins revealed that his offensive comment in the TikTok was actually a reference to a line spoken by Dudley Moore’s character in the 1981 comedy film “Arthur.” The video was shot in August, weeks earlier.
The fired employee also described the company’s initial response to learning about the video, including a call he received in the middle of the night from another senior asking that he find a method to remove the post.
According to Blevins, an unnamed Apple official remarked, “This is awful, and some people have complained.”
Tony Blevins made an offensive statement in a TikTok that went viral.
Blevins frantically attempted to contact TikTok and request that the video be removed, but was unable. He stated that he denied Apple’s request for his resignation and was then terminated without severance.
Blevins held a critical position at Apple before being fired. As Apple’s vice president of procurement, he was responsible for ensuring the seamless running of the company’s vital supply chain, including negotiating with major suppliers.
Blevins was a well-known character at the IT giant, where he was known as “The Blevinator” and was recognized for his negotiation skills.
Apple apparently declined to comment on the remarks made by Blevins.
Instead of replacing Blevins with a new employee, Apple reportedly transferred his direct reports around the company’s operations division.
The Journal reported that former Apple employees had diverse reactions to Blevins’ departure, with some stating they had never witnessed him engage in unprofessional behavior and others claiming his statement had crossed a line and justified termination.
Bloomberg reported in September that following an internal probe over his comments, Blevins was fired. According to the publication, he oversaw a team of “several hundred people and half a dozen direct reports.”
Tony Blevins was sacked by Apple in September.
In September, when his dismissal first became public knowledge, Blevins also made an apology.
He remarked, “I would like to use this opportunity to apologize to anyone who was upset by my ill-conceived attempt at humor.”