Morrissey pulls out of TV comeback show over duck hunters

Morrissey has scrapped his comeback performance on U.S. TV show Jimmy Kimmel Live! after learning he would be appearing alongside the cast of reality series Duck Dynasty.

The singer/songwriter was scheduled to appear on comedian Kimmel's late night programme on Tuesday - his first gig since a bleeding ulcer forced him to cancel a string of concerts last month - but he has told fans he cannot bear to hang out with "animal serial killers".

The Brit will only reconsider if the bird-hunting family is kicked off the show.

A statement from his management on Monday reads: "Morrissey is thankful for being invited to perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live! tomorrow, February 26. However, he cannot morally be on a television program where the cast members of Duck Dynasty will also be guests. Morrissey would be honored to play the show, if Duck Dynasty were removed."

The fervent vegetarian adds, "As far as my reputation is concerned, I can't take the risk of being on a show alongside people who, in effect, amount to animal serial killers. If Jimmy cannot dump Duck Dynasty then we must step away."

Morrissey has been ruffling feathers elsewhere in Los Angeles, where Kimmel's show is filmed - the Suedehead singer has also demanded Staples Center bosses pull all meat items from their concessions stalls for his gig there on 1 March.