Jimmy Fallon apologises for impersonating Chris Rock in blackface as old video goes viral
Story highlights
Chat-show host Jimmy Fallon has issued an apology for an old video that has him in blackface impersonating Chris Rock
Chat-show host Jimmy Fallon has issued an apology for an old video that has him in blackface impersonating Chris Rock. The video dates back to the year 2000 when Fallon was part of 'Saturday Night Live'.
Fallon issued an apology on Tuesday after video and criticism of the sketch resurfaced on social media.
"In 2000, while on SNL, I made a terrible decision to do an impersonation of Chris Rock while in blackface. There is no excuse for this.
I am very sorry for making this unquestionably offensive decision and thank all of you for holding me accountable," Fallon tweeted.
In 2000, while on SNL, I made a terrible decision to do an impersonation of Chris Rock while in blackface. There is no excuse for this.
— jimmy fallon (@jimmyfallon) May 26, 2020
I am very sorry for making this unquestionably offensive decision and thank all of you for holding me accountable.
Fallon was a cast member of 'Saturday Night Live' from 1998 to 2004. Rock starred on 'SNL' from 1990 to 1993.
In the sketch, which is not posted on NBC or the show's websites, Fallon appeared as Rock on a talk show hosted by Regis Philbin (played by Darrell Hammond).
Before Fallon, several other celebrities including Sarah Silverman have apologized for offensive comedy in their past after facing backlash online.