A Tennessee-based CEO has lost his job after a viral video showed him ridiculing a teen for wearing a dress to his prom, WGN 9 reported.
In a TikTok video that has now gone viral, former VisuWell CEO Sam Johnson is seen taunting Franklin High School senior Dalton Stevens for what he wore to his school’s dance.
“You look like an idiot,” Johnson says to Stevens.
Stevens and his boyfriend insult Johnson as the former CEO continues to heckle the high school senior.
VisuWell released a statement on Monday on Twitter saying it fired Johnson after looking into the incident. The company condemned his remarks.
“We unequivocally condemn the behavior exhibited by Sam Johnson in a recent video widely circulated on social media,” VisuWell said in its statement. “After investigating the matter and speaking to individuals involved, the VisuWell Board of Directors has chosen to terminate Mr. Johnson from his position as CEO, effective immediately. Gerry Andrady, our President and COO, will lead the company through this important time.”
“VisuWell’s culture emphasizes respect, kindness, and compassion, especially for those from traditionally marginalized communities, and we maintain a zero-tolerance policy for intolerance of any kind,” the company added.
VisuWell added that it will be taking “concrete steps” to support the local LGBTQ+ community in the coming weeks.