‘The Apprentice’ Director Ali Abbasi Says He Is ‘Truly Sorry’ Following Groping Accusation, States Reports That He Was Dropped by His Representation are ‘False’: ‘I Believe in Taking Accountability for My Actions’

variety.com:

Jack Dunn Ali Abbasi has released an official statement after news broke Friday of an alleged groping incident that occurred at this year’s Golden Globes. “I want to address the recent articles about me directly and openly,” Abbasi wrote in a statement shared on X. “I fully understand that my action made someone uncomfortable, regardless of my intent, and for that, I am truly sorry.

He continued, “I had spent time with the person concerned on multiple occasions and had reason to thing we had a friendly relationship.

When I saw him at the Golden Globes party, I was excited to reconnect. I made an over-familiar gesture – a slap on the rear – which I intended as playful and not in any sexual way whatsoever.

I quickly realized I had misjudged the situation. I apologized to him on the spot, and the following day I made sure my apology was reiterated through my representatives.” More to come….