The only ones who can use the N-Word are black comics and rappers. They are also the only ones along with black and liberal white politicians who can use racial putdowns of whites. Richards may have gone overboard, but I have no idea what went on before he launched into his tirade. It would be interesting to learn how long he had been on stage before the incident and whether it was in the context of his act or not.
Get over your tired line of argument. A white person calling a black person will always be offensive. Furthermore, I find the term offensive in all contents. I have never been called a "nigger" by a fellow black person. NEVER!!! Not ONCE in my 33 years of life. It is unacceptable. If I hear a black rapper or comic use that term, I cringe in disgust. If I hear a white person use it, I cringe in disgust. STOP DEFENDING THE USE OF THE WORD BY CLAIMING THAT BLACKS FIND IT ACCEPTABLE WHEN USED BY OTHER BLACKS. MOST OF US DO NOT!!! (but i'm sure you'll cotinue to justify it...)