Janet Jackson’s ‘apology’ for shocking Kamala Harris comments was not authorised by singer

Janet Jackson‘s reported “apology” for claiming that Kamala Harris is not Black, which echoed a false claim made by Harris’s White House rival, Donald Trump, was not authorised by the singer, it has emerged.

The singer, 58, whose brother Tito died aged 70 last week, made the shocking comments about the Democratic candidate when asked how she felt about the US having its first female Black president.

Less than 24 hours after Jackson’s comments were published in an interview with The Guardian, a statement sent to Buzzfeed by Mo Elmasri, apparently claiming to be her manager, said she apologised for her remarks.

The statement shared by Elmasri, which was reported on by multiple outlets including The Independent, said: “She deeply respects Vice President Kamala Harris and her accomplishments as a Black and Indian woman.

“Janet apologises for any confusion caused and acknowledges the importance of accurate representation in public discourse. We appreciate the opportunity to address this and will remain committed to promoting unity.”

However, it has since been reported that Jackson is in fact managed by her brother, Rady, and that the unusually worded “apology” was not authorised.

Elmasri toldVariety: “I no longer work for her. I was fired by Janet and Randy, after attempts to improve her image in front of public opinion and her fans, and this is something I do not deserve.”

The Independent has contacted Jackson’s representatives for comment.

The “All for You” singer had previously said: “She’s not Black. That’s what I heard. That she’s Indian. Her father’s white. That’s what I was told.”

Jackson then admitted she hadn’t “watched the news in a few days” but was told somebody had “discovered” Harris’ father “was white”.

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