Everyone is sorry. To twist Bernie Taupin’s original lyrics, “Sorry seems to be the easiest word.”
Everyone’s got an apology this week. Morgan Wallen apologizes for drunkenly using the “N” word. “Bachelor Host” Chris Harrison is sorry he said stupid things in a discussion of racism on his show.
Now Justin Timberlake is sorry for throwing Janet Jackson under the bus at the Super Bowl years ago, and for writing a song about his nasty break up with Britney Spears.
The Apology Tour continues. At the 2004 Super Bowl half time show, Justin ripped Janet’s blouse, exposing her, and causing the first ever global “wardrobe malfunction.” She got blamed, he stayed mum, and she paid the price for years. He also let his ex girlfriend, Spears, suffer from taunting after they broke up. He got a hit record out of it, “Cry Me a River.”
Now a contrite Justin writes:
“I’ve seen the messages, tags, comments, and concerns and I want to respond. I am deeply sorry for the times in my life where my actions contributed to the problem, where I spoke out of turn, or did not speak up for what was right. I understand that I fell short in these moments and in many others and benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism. I specifically want to apologize to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson both individually, because I care for and respect these women and I know I failed. I also feel compelled to respond, in part, because everyone involved deserves better and most importantly, because this is a larger conversation that I wholeheartedly want to be part of and grow from. The industry is flawed. It sets men, especially white men, up for success. It’s designed this way. As a man in a privileged position I have to be vocal about this. Because of my ignorance, I didn’t recognize it for all that it was while it was happening in my own life but I do not want to ever benefit from others being pulled down again. I have not been perfect in navigating all of this throughout my career. I know this apology is a first step and doesn’t absolve the past. I want to take accountability for my own missteps in all of this as well as be part of a world that uplifts and supports. I care deeply about the wellbeing of the people I love and have loved. I can do better and I will do better.”
