Sir Ian McKellen has issued an apology after facing a backlash for his remarks about Kevin Spacey and Bryan Singer who both allegedly abused underage men.
The British actor suggested Spacey and Singer allegedly assaulted others due to not being open about their sexuality.
He made the comments on a recent live edition of the #QueerAF podcast but has now apologised, stating his words were “clumsily expressed”.
He said: “As part of an extended podcast recently, I suggested that if closeted people were instead open about their sexuality they wouldn’t abuse others. That, of course, is wrong.
“My intention was to encourage the LGBT audience I was addressing to be proud and open about their sexuality. In doing so, my point was clumsily expressed.
“I would never, ever trivialise or condone abuse of any kind. I deeply regret my careless remarks and apologise unreservedly for any distress I caused.
“When it comes to abuse by people in positions of power, the correct response is clear.
“The accusers must be heard and the accused given the opportunity to clear their names. If the accusations prove credible, the abuser’s access to power should be removed.”
Additional reporting by Agencies
