James Corden Apologizes After Facing Backlash for Insensitive Harvey Weinstein Jokes

Not what he meant? James Corden issued an apology after making several insensitive jokes, which seemingly took aim at alleged sexual predator Harvey Weinstein’s victims. The late-night host, 39, said he was sorry in a series of tweets on Sunday, Oct. 15.

“To be clear, sexual assault is no laughing matter. I was not trying to make light of Harvey’s inexcusable behavior, but to shame him, the abuser, not his victims,” he wrote. “I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention.”

Harvey and James in 2012. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

James’ statement came days after he took the stage at Hollywood’s annual amFAR Gala on Friday, Oct. 13, where his sense of humor fell flat. “It’s been weird this week watching Harvey Weinstein in hot water. Ask any of the women who watched him take a bath, it’s weird,” he quipped.

The U.K. native — who starred in 2014’s One Chance, a Weinstein Company movie — also joked, “It’s a beautiful night here in LA. So beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked tonight up to his hotel to give him a massage.”

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After his ill-advised remarks were met with groans from a star-studded audience including Fergie, Kate Hudson, Tom Hanks, and more celebs, James found himself under fire on social media. Rose McGowan — one of Harvey’s accusers, who alleged that the film executive raped her — clapped back at James, writing, “YOU MOTHERF–KING PIGLET.” She also added that James is a “close friend” of Harvey’s.

As previously reported, the New York Times published an exposé of Harvey, 65, on Oct. 5, which alleged that he sexually assaulted dozens of actresses, including Ashley Judd. Many other A-list stars — including Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Cara Delevingne — have come forward to share stories of their horrific interactions with Harvey (who has vehemently denied allegations of non-consensual sex).

Harvey eventually offered a lackluster apology — in which he quoted a JAY-Z lyric — but has since been fired from his position at the Weinstein Company. Additionally, his wife, Marchesa co-founder Georgina Chapman, announced on Oct. 10 that she is leaving Harvey after nearly 10 years of marriage.