After years of criticism, Justin Timberlake is apologizing.
On Friday, the pop star shared a statement on Instagram apologizing to both Britney Spears and Janet Jackson for his past behaviour toward them.
Photograph by Ross Dettman
The apology comes amid recent backlash generated by the documentary “Framing Britney Spears”, in which Timberlake is criticized for his 2002 “Cry Me a River” video, inspired by his acrimonious split from the “Baby One More Time” singer and vaguely accusing her of cheating.
“I’ve seen the messages, tags, comments, and concerns and I want to respond,” Timberlake wrote. “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.”
He continued, “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.”
In 2004, Timberlake infamously performed with Jackson, at one point pulling off a part of her outfit revealing her dress in what was described as a “wardrobe malfunction.” While Jackson was treated harshly for the incident, Timberlake was largely left alone, and did not take responsibility, as depicted in the documentary.
ICYMI: Following the backlash he received over the #FramingBritneySpears documentary, #JustinTimberlake is apologizing to both #BritneySpears and #JanetJackson in a lengthy Instagram post pic.twitter.com/urgFmVbFEH
— ET Canada (@ETCanada) February 12, 2021
