In a significant turn of events, a theater professor in Tennessee has not only been reinstated to his position but also awarded $500,000 following his dismissal linked to a social media post about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Darren Michael, who serves as an associate professor specializing in acting and directing at Austin Peay State University, returned to his role after reaching a settlement with the institution, as reported by WKRN News 2.

The settlement, finalized last month, mandates that the university not only compensate Michael but also cover the costs for his therapeutic counseling services. This development marks an important resolution to the dispute that had raised significant questions about the university’s handling of tenure termination processes.

As part of the agreement, Austin Peay State University has committed to issuing a formal statement expressing regret over not adhering to appropriate procedures during the termination of Michael’s tenure. This statement will be communicated to faculty, staff, and students through the university’s usual communication channels, ensuring transparency and acknowledgment of the oversight.

“APSU agrees to issue a statement acknowledging regret for not following the tenure termination process in connection with the Dispute,” the agreement, obtained by WKRN News 2, reads in part. 

“The statement will be distributed via email through APSU’s reasonable communication channels to faculty, staff, and students,” it continues. 

Michael was fired on Sept. 12 – two days after Kirk was shot and killed by a sniper at Utah Valley University – for posting “insensitive” content on social media related to the Turning Point USA founder. 

In one Facebook post – which caught the attention of Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) – Michael shared an article titled, “Charlie Kirk says gun deaths are ‘unfortunately’ worth it to keep 2nd Amendment.” 

The professor did not add any additional caption to the post. 

Blackburn shared a screenshot of Michael’s Facebook on X, with the caption: “What do you say, Austin Peay?”

The senator’s post included a photograph of Michael and his resume.

Austin Peay State University released a statement later that day indicating that Michael had been fired for social media comments that were “insensitive, disrespectful and interpreted by many as propagating justification for unlawful death,” according to the Tennessean. 

“Such actions do not align with Austin Peay’s commitment to mutual respect and human dignity,” APSU President Mike Licari said in the statement. “The university deems these actions unacceptable and has terminated the faculty member.”