The charitable foundation launched by Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has reportedly cut ties with one of its advisory board members after his comments about Charlie Kirk's assassination drew public criticism.

The foundation announced the decision on Thursday, stressing that its values did not align with the remarks.

"The Joe Burrow Foundation was founded on the belief that everyone has the responsibility to do good," the statement read.

"We have terminated an advisory board member that made inappropriate remarks in light of recent events and they are no longer associated with the Foundation.

"Their comments do not reflect our values or our mission. We are committed to accountability and respect for all."

The board member in question is Hamilton County municipal court Judge Ted Berry, who has served on the bench since 2005.

His comments, posted on Facebook shortly after Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University, were quickly condemned as offensive and out of step with the foundation's mission.

Judge Berry responds to the controversy

Berry issued a statement to the Cincinnati Enquirer after his removal, attempting to downplay the fallout.

"I regret if I caused division. That was not my intent. And I hope there can be peace," he said. While Berry did not directly retract his comments, he acknowledged the negative reaction and the disruption it caused.

The judge now faces a wave of criticism that extends beyond his role with Burrow's nonprofit. Several voices in the community have called for him to step down from the judiciary altogether.

Berry has said in the past that he intends to retire when his current term ends in January 2026, but opponents argue the latest controversy is grounds for an earlier exit.

A foundation focused on service

For Burrow, whose foundation prioritizes fighting food insecurity and improving mental health resources in Ohio and Louisiana, the incident was a distraction from its mission.

The group acted quickly to distance itself from political controversy and maintain its reputation as a community-driven organization.

The decision also underscores the ripple effect of Kirk's assassination, which has ignited strong emotions nationwide and led to consequences for individuals far removed from the political arena.

In this case, a judge's Facebook post ended a connection with one of the NFL's most visible charitable efforts.