Justin Timberlake has issued an apology to ex Britney Spears amid fresh backlash of how he handled his split from the Work Bitch singer in 2002.
His single Cry Me A River is widely said to be about Brit and even includes a lookalike in the accompanying video.
New York Times documentary Framing Britney looks back at the superstar’s rocky ride to the top – highlighting how Britney was painted as the villain after she split from Justin.
The chart-topper took to social media on Friday to pen a heartfelt open letter to the star.
Taking to Instagram, Justin wrote: “I’ve seen the messages, tags, comments and concerns and I want to respond. 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 of these moments and in many others and benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism.”
Justin Timberlake split with Britney Spears in 2002 (Image: AFP/Getty Images)
The singer continued: “I specifically want to apologise to Britney Spears and Janet Jacket both individually, because I care for and respect these women and I know I failed.
“I also feel compelled to respond, in part, because everyone involved deserves better and most importantly, because this is a larger conversation that I wholeheartedly want to be part of and grow from.
“The industry is flawed. It sets men, especially white men, up for success.
Justin Timberlake has issued a public apology to Britney Spears (Image: Reuters)
“As a man in a privileged position I have to be vocal about this.
“Because of my ignorance, I didn’t recognise it for all that while it was happening in my own life but I do not want to ever benefit from others being pulled down agin.”
Not stopping there, the Mirrors singer added: “I have not been perfect in navigating all of this throughout my career.
“I know this apology is a first step and doesn’t absolve the past.
“I want to make accountability for my own missteps in all of this as well as be part of a world that uplifts and supports.
“I care deeply about the wellbeing of the people I love and have loved. I can do better and I will do better.”
Grilling Britney about the break-up one ABC at the time, broadcaster Diane Sawyer said: “He has gone on television and said you did something that broke his heart.
“That caused him so much pain. So much suffering. What did you do?”
Britney Spears was grilled about the break-up on US TV (Image: Video Grab)
Britney replied: “I was upset, I was upset for a while.
“We both were really young and it was waiting to happen. I will always love him. He will always have a special place in my heart.”
Not letting the point go, Diane added: “He has left he impression that you weren’t faithful. That you betrayed the relationship.”
Britney said: “I think everyone has a side to their story to make them feel a certain way. I am not technically saying he is wrong, but I am not technically saying he is right either.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
