Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston Blasted For Using “Offensive And Inappropriate” R-Word. Jennifer Aniston is under fire for referring herself as a “retard” during an appearance on “Live with Regis and Kelly.” Her comment caused outrage from different social groups, saying it was “extraordinarily offensive and inappropriate.” Aniston was discussing recently dressing up as Barbra Streisand of Harper’s Bazaar in the show when she referred to herself as a retard. She replied to Regis, “Yes, I play dress up! I do it for a living, like a retard!” Although the studio audience laughed at the 41-year-old actress’ self-deprecating thought, Peter  Berns, CEO of The Arc, a non-profit advocate for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, wasn’t laughing with her. He told our source, “Frankly, someone in her position ought to know better. She is using language that is offensive to a large segment of the population in this country.” “Every time folks hear that word, it kind of reminds them of all the discrimination and oppression they’ve experienced in their lives. Even if it wasn’t intended to insult them, that is the effect of it.”  Special Olympics spokeswoman Kirsten Seckler also told our source, “Sadly, people use the word pervasively even if they don’t realize it. People with intellectual disabilities have fought their whole lives for understanding and recognition. When people continue to use the R word, it’s hurtful.” She added that stars should use the word “ridiculous” instead, “Think before you speak especially when you’re making fun of yourself or others.” Aniston isn’t the only celeb blasted for using the offensive word. Howard Stern, Lindsay Lohan, and Rush Limbaugh also took heat for using the term