'Roots' producer Will Packer addresses Snoop Dogg criticism, others

Will Packer expected critics to pile on following the debut of the "Roots" remake, and he's got a response for them, including rapper Snoop Dogg.

The rapper posted a profanity-laced Instagram video that lambasted the miniseries for debuting on Memorial Day and depicting the lives of black American slaves. Of all his work, Packer said the miniseries has been the most heavily criticized. His other work includes "Ride Along" and "Ride Along 2," "Think Like a Man" and "Think Like a Man 2."

“They’re uncomfortable revisiting the reality of that time,” Packer said. “I understand it. But at the same time, I vehemently disagree.”

FAMU grads Will Packer, Anika Noni Rose bring life to 'Roots' remake

When asked about Snoop's position, which went viral Monday, Packer said the rapper was entitled to his opinion.

“I think that while I certainly don’t judge Snoop at all because I’m very flawed myself, I just think the irony of having him saying and using the n-word, saying, ‘A real n-word like me wouldn’t watch this," Packer said. "I couldn’t help but think there’s a ghost of some horrendous slave owner that is smiling and smirking as he watches this black man say that and call himself that …I think that slave owner probably said, ‘Preach. I agree.’”

Packer believes in the power of being uncomfortable.

"I don’t think we should get too comfortable as a country, as a society or as a race of people," Packer said. "I think this is a story that’s important enough it should be told in repeated ways."

Contact TaMaryn Waters at tlwaters@tallahassee.com or follow @TaMarynWaters on Twitter.