Benedict Cumberbatch Apologizes For Calling Black Actors 'Colored' - Read His Statement

Benedict Cumberbatch has sparked some backlash after making some comments on black actors during an interview on The Tavis Smiley Show.

“I think as far as colored actors go it gets really different in the U.K., and a lot of my friends have had more opportunities here [in the U.S.] than in the U.K., and that’s something that needs to change,” the 38-year-old actor shared after answering a question about Chiwetel Ejiofor and David Oyelowo getting recognition on 12 Years a Slave and Selma.

After his interview aired, Benedict apologized for his comments by saying in a statement to People, “I’m devastated to have caused offense by using this outmoded terminology. I offer my sincere apologies. I make no excuse for my being an idiot and know the damage is done. I can only hope this incident will highlight the need for correct usage of terminology that is accurate and inoffensive. The most shaming aspect of this for me is that I was talking about racial inequality in the performing arts in the U.K. and the need for rapid improvements in our industry when I used the term.”

He added, “I feel the complete fool I am and while I am sorry to have offended people and to learn from my mistakes in such a public manner please be assured I have. I apologize again to anyone who I offended for this thoughtless use of inappropriate language about an issue which affects friends of mine and which I care about deeply.”