'deeply sorry'
Leigh Francis in tears as he apologises over playing black people in Bo’ Selecta
COMEDIAN Leigh Francis has issued a tearful apology for dressing up as black celebrities in Bo Selecta.
The actor - who plays Keith Lemon on television - took to Instagram to say sorry for his Channel 4 2002 show where he played versions of celebrities like Mel B, Craig David, Michael Jackson and Trisha Goddard.
2
In a tearful video Leigh said he didn't realise how offensive it was at the time, but now he does.
He captioned it: "Following recent events, I’ve done a lot of talking and learning and I would like to put this out there.
"I want to apologise to anyone that was offended by Bo’selecta. I’m on a constant journey of knowledge and just wanted to say I’m deeply sorry. #blacklivesmatter"
In the video he said: "My name's Leigh Francis I play a character called Keith Lemon on television.
2
"It's been a weird few days, I've sat and thought about things and what I could post to help things.
"Back in 2002 I did a show called Bo' Selecta, I portrayed many black people. Back then I didn't think anything about it, people didn't say anything, I'm not going to blame other people.
"Been talking to some people, I didn't realise how offensive it was back then.
"I just want to apologise, I just want to say sorry for any upset I caused whether I was Michael Jackson, Craig David, Trisha Goddard, all people I'm a big fan of. I guess we're all on a learning journey."
MOST READ IN TV & SHOWBIZ
Coronation Street star Alexandra Mardell commented: "Love you and all your shows, so admirable of you to apologise but I know me and my family were never offended! Lots of love."
Protests about racial injustice and racist police brutality sprung up across America and around the world after the death of George Floyd.
Police officer Derek Chauvin has been charged with second degree murder and manslaughter of Floyd.
The three other officers with him are being charged with aiding and abetting after standing by while Chauvin kneeled on Floyd's neck - and ignored his pleas for help.
Topics