Devastating news of another mass shooting swept the nation on Saturday night (June 11) and the producers of the 2016 Tony Awards — which are set to air live Sunday (June 12) at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS — were immediate to respond. They announced that the evening’s ceremony would be dedicated to the victims of the Orlando, Fl. tragedy.
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“Our hearts are heavy for the unimaginable tragedy that happened last night in Orlando,” the producers shared in a statement. “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those affected. The Tony Awards dedicate tonight’s ceremony to them.”
On Saturday night, shooter Omar Saddiqui Mateen took an AR-15 rifle and a legally purchased Glock pistol and unloaded numerous rounds of ammo at Pulse Nightclub, leaving at least 50 dead. The 29-year-old who was already on the FBI’s list as a suspected ISIS supporter, was killed by police. This is the largest mass shooting in U.S. history and the most devastating act of terrorism since 9/11.
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Florida resident Gloria Estefan, slated to perform during the Tonys, took to Instagram speak on the massacre.
People flocked to social media to express their feelings of heartache and outrage. In addition to Estefan, numerous celebrities reached out to voice their views on the Orlando shooting and send out prayers for everyone involved.
