Kirk Franklin: 'Preachers of L.A.' Is a 'Disappointment'

By Leah Marianne Klett
Real Preachers of L.A.
Real Preachers of L.A. www.preachersofla.com

Gospel singer Kirk Franklin recently said that he is "very disappointed" by the popular TV show "Preachers of L.A."

During an appearance on "The D.L. Hughley Show," Franklin revealed his disapproval of the Oxygen show in response to the host's comment that "Preachers of L.A." show seemed to turn people away from God.

"I lived in L.A. my whole life, and to me, I thought the purpose of that show was to drag nonbelievers, people who don't have access to God and don't have relationship with Him, that it would be so attractive that it would draw them to Him," said Hughley. "I think it's done the opposite."

Franklin responded in agreement with the host, stating that while he respects several of the characters and even views them as friends, he rejects the show itself.

This is not the first time the award-winning gospel artist has voiced his disapproval of the show.

Earlier this year, Franklin told fans at a Detroit, Mich. Show, "You'll never see your boy on real 'Preachers of L.A."

The popular show follows the lavish lives and booming careers of six mega pastors - Clarence McClendon, Deitrick Haddon (one of the show's producers), Jay Haizlip, Noel Jones, Wayne Chaney and Ron Gibson.

A description on Oxygen's website boasts: "Known for their fiery sermons, community outreach and passionate followings, pastors have become iconic, beloved, and sometimes polarizing figures in modern culture. Yet, few people have access to these larger-than-life men away from the pulpit. Until now."

"P. Diddy, Jay-Z - they're not the only ones who should be driving Ferraris and living in large houses," said Bishop Gibson in the show's introduction.

"Preachers of L.A." has sparked controversy even before the pilot due to the extravagant lifestyles of the stars. While some Christians argue that it propagates negative stereotypes concerning the faith-based community, others have gone as far as to boycott the show entirely.

However, the Oxygen show has found great success, averaging more than one million total viewers during its eight-episode run that started in Oct. 2013. In addition to being renewed by Oxygen Media for a second season, "Preachers of L.A." could have potential spin-off series for major cities like New York, Dallas, Atlanta and Detroit.

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