Justin Timberlake Apologizes to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson

"I understand that I fell short in these moments and in many others and benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism"

BY Josiah HughesPublished Feb 12, 2021

Last week, the New York Times and Hulu teamed up to release Framing Britney Spears — an in-depth and harrowing look at the way Britney Spears has been mistreated over the years. Among those who come out looking less than great in the documentary is Justin Timberlake, who famously dated Britney Spears and then blamed her for their breakup when their relationship ended. Now, Timberlake has apologized.

In a new statement posted to his Instagram, Timberlake apologized for the way he treated Spears in the media following their breakup (which included the pointed music video for "Cry Me a River"). He also apologized for the infamous Janet Jackson wardrobe malfunction at the Super Bowl where he ripped a piece of her wardrobe and exposed her breast.

"I've seen the messages, tags, comments, and concerns and I want to respond," he said. "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."

He added that the music industry "sets men, especially white men, up for success." He added that his apology does not absolve his past.

Read the full statement from Justin Timberlake below.
 

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