Blue singer Lee Ryan was "assaulted" on a flight to Turkey following a "culturally insensitive act" the band confirmed.
The band took to social media to share their statement about the alleged incident on their flight on Saturday, July 8. During their flight from Georgia to Istanbul, Blue said Lee Ryan "put his feet on the seat, which was considered culturally insensitive."
Following this, they said he was "physically assaulted by a male passenger". The rest of the band defended him from the attack, which continued after the plane had landed.
READ MORE: Couple open city cafe 'better than the Ritz' with New York-inspired afternoon teas
The band added that the singer was then "pushed down a flight of stairs" and both parties were spoken to, but Lee was "not at any point arrested, detained or charged".
Taking to social media, Blue said: "While on a flight from Georgia to Istanbul, Turkey with Turkish Airlines today (Saturday July 8, 2023), Lee Ryan was physically assaulted by a male passenger. Lee and the rest of the band, defended him from the attack, which continued after the plane had landed when the passenger pushed Lee down a flight of stairs causing an injury to his leg.
"Both parties were spoken to by the police in Turkey and to which Lee voluntarily gave a victim statement supported by the band. Lee was not at any point arrested, detained or charged with any offence and after giving his statement, was free to continue his journey.
"The assault occurred after Lee had put his feet on the seat which was considered culturally insensitive and for which Lee has apologised for any unknowing offence caused."
Turkish Airlines has been approached for comment.
Receive newsletters with the biggest and breaking TV and showbiz news by signing up here
