Mumford & Sons' banjoist says he is "taking time away from the band" after fans criticised a social media post in which he endorsed US conservative journalist Andy Ngo.
In a now-deleted tweet, Winston Marshall said Ngo's controversial book – Unmasked: Inside Antifa’s Radical Plan To Destroy Democracy – was "important" and praised the writer as a "brave man".
The musician, 33, now says he is stepping away from the band to "examine [his] blindspots" after facing criticism from fans.
One described his tweet as a "dumbfounding endorsement of fascism".
Ngo's book claims it exposes the left-wing Antifa movement as "violent" and "extremist", which the Los Angeles Times says is a "supremely dishonest" portrayal of the group.
Marshall said in a statement: “Over the past few days I have come to better understand the pain caused by the book I endorsed. I have offended not only a lot of people I don’t know, but also those closest to me, including my bandmates and for that I am truly sorry.
“As a result of my actions I am taking time away from the band to examine my blindspots.
“For now, please know that I realise how my endorsements have the potential to be viewed as approvals of hateful, divisive behaviour. I apologise, as this was not at all my intention.”
Mumford & Sons is a folk rock band formed in London in 2007 and has had hits including I Will Wait and Hopeless Wanderer.
The remaining members are Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett and Ted Dwane.
Representatives for the band have been approached for comment.
