Jimmy Kimmel Apologizes for His 'Thoughtless' Blackface Impersonation of Karl Malone

tvguide.com:

Jimmy Kimmel apologized for his impersonation of NBA star Karl Malone, which featured the comedian in blackface, on The Man Show.

The Man Show, a sketch comedy series hosted by Kimmel and Adam Carolla on Comedy Central, ran from 1999-2003 but Kimmel's impersonation of Karl Malone originated on KROQ radio in the mid-90s. "I have long been reluctant to address this, as I knew doing so would be celebrated as a victory by those who equate apologies with weakness and cheer for leaders who use prejudice to divide us," said Kimmel via statement. "That delay was a mistake.

There is nothing more important to me than your respect, and I apologize to those who were genuinely hurt or offended by the makeup I wore or the words I spoke."Kimmel went on to.