Justin Timberlake issues apology to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson: ‘I know I failed’
- 14 Feb 2021
Gulf Today Report
Justin Timberlake has finally broken his silence on all the accusations of mistreatment against him.
The singer has issued an apology to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson after facing backlash in the wake of the release of the “Framing Britney Spears” documentary.
“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 wrote in part in an Instagram post.
“I understand that I fell short in these moments and in many others and benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism.”
Timberlake specifically addressed Spears and Jackson, writing: “I care for and respect these women and I know I failed.”
The singer began his statement by saying he has “seen the messages, tags, comments, and concerns (pertaining to his past behaviour)” and wanted to respond.
Later on in the statement he digresses to address the music industry in general.
“The industry is flawed,” he wrote. “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 recognise 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.”
Timberlake bore the brunt of fan fury following the release of “Framing Britney Spears” which implicitly shows him in bad light following his break-up with Spears, with whom he was in a relationship between 1999 and 2002.
The documentary started conversations about the treatment of Spears by her loved ones, the public and the media, and issues concerning fame and mental health, as per The Independent.
As for Jackson, Timberlake was performing with her during the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show when he accidently ripped off a part of her costume leading to an infamous wardrobe malfunction.
Jackson seemed to suffer most of the backlash, with Timberlake facing a fraction of the blame and returning to perform at the Super Bowl for a solo halftime show in 2018.
In his apology Timberlake added: “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.”
