Benedict Cumberbatch Apologizes For "Thoughtless" Comment on Race
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Benedict Cumberbatch has issued an apology for using the term "colored" during an interview on the Tavis Smiley PBS show. The actor stated that he is "devastated to have caused offense by using this outmoded terminology" and offered his "sincere apologies." He also included, "I make no excuse for my being an idiot and know the damage is done." Benedict appeared on the show last week to discuss his role in the film The Imitation Game. The answer came after a question about the lack of diversity in British films. Watch the response below, and read the full statement after that:
"I'm devastated to have caused offense by using this outmoded terminology. I offer my sincere apologies. I make no excuse for my being an idiot and know the damage is done. I can only hope this incident will highlight the need for correct usage of terminology that is accurate and inoffensive. The most shaming aspect of this for me is that I was talking about racial inequality in the performing arts in the U.K. and the need for rapid improvements in our industry when I used the term. I feel the complete fool I am and while I am sorry to have offended people and to learn from my mistakes in such a public manner please be assured I have. I apologize again to anyone who I offended for this thoughtless use of inappropriate language about an issue which affects friends of mine and which I care about deeply."