Leigh Francis was in tears as he issued an apology for portraying black celebrities on his show \'Bo\' Selecta\'.
The 47-year-old comedian - who is best known for starring as character Keith Lemon in numerous shows - took to Instagram to share a video of himself saying sorry for his portrayals of celebrities such as Craig David and Michael Jackson on the 2002 programme.
He said in the clip: "My name\'s Leigh Francis I play a character called Keith Lemon on television.
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"It\'s been a weird few days, I\'ve sat and thought about things and what I could post to help things.
"Back in 2002, I did a show called \'Bo\' Selecta\'. I portrayed many black people. Back then I didn\'t think anything about it, people didn\'t say anything, I\'m not going to blame other people.
"I\'ve been talking to some people, I didn\'t realise how offensive it was back then.
"I just want to apologise, I just want to say sorry for any upset I caused, whether I was Michael Jackson, Craig David, Trisha Goddard, all people I\'m a big fan of. I guess we\'re all on a learning journey."
The \'Celebrity Juice\' presenter admitted he is "deeply sorry" for any offence he caused on \'Bo\' Selecta\'.
He captioned the video: "Following recent events, I\'ve done a lot of talking and learning and I would like to put this out there. I want to apologise to anyone that was offended by Bo\'selecta. I\'m on a constant journey of knowledge and just wanted to say I\'m deeply sorry. #blacklivesmatter (sic)"
Leigh\'s comments come after Black Lives Matter protests took place around many cities all over the world following the death of George Floyd, who died after a police officer knelt on his neck when restraining him.
Several stars sent Leigh messages of support following his post.
\'Coronation Street\' actress Alexandra Mardell shared: "Love you and all your shows, so admirable of you to apologise but I know me and my family were never offended! Lots of love (sic)"
\'Hollyoaks\' star Kelle Bryan posted: "It\'s a conversation Leigh. Thanks for having the courage to start it (sic)"
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