The Weeknd, Belly pull out of Kimmel performance over Trump

The Weeknd and rapper Belly pulled out of a performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Wednesday because they did not want to share the stage with Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump. 

Rapper Belly, who co-wrote many of The Weeknd's hits on Beauty Behind Madness, said in a statement: "I feel like the way I was raised was to be able to see through all the titles in this world from religion to race. I just didn't want to feel like I was a part of a celebration for somebody who has beliefs that majority of us don't agree with.

“For me, being Muslim and being somebody that appreciates my access here in America, I love the fact that I'm able to be here. To play my part in this business is a privilege and a beautiful thing. The fact that I could lose that ability through the actions of someone such as Donald Trump isn't right to me. At all."

The singer was due to appear on Belly's song "Might Not" on Kimmel's show. 

Trump has been criticised for his controversial comments on women, refugees, immigrants and Muslims. He called for a ban on Muslim immigration into the U.S. 

Jimmy Kimmel Live! had no comment, a representative said. Representatives for The Weeknd didn't immediately respond to emails seeking comment.

The Associated Press contributed reporting 

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