Janet Jackson’s “apology” for questioning Kamala Harris’ ethnicity was not authorised by the singer, it’s been revealed.
The pop singer was speaking in a recent interview when she was asked about her views on America potentially voting in its first Black female president, to which she responded by voicing her doubt over whether the Democratic candidate was actually Black.
“Well, you know what they supposedly said?” she responded. “She’s not Black. That’s what I heard. That she’s Indian.”
Following the publication of her interview in The Guardian, a statement was shared to Buzzfeed by Mo Elmasri, who appeared to be Jackson’s manager, claiming the remarks were “based on misinformation”.
“She deeply respects Vice President Kamala Harris and her accomplishments as a Black and Indian woman,” the statement read.
“Janet apologises for any confusion caused and acknowledges the importance of accurate representation in public discourse. We appreciate the opportunity to address this and will remain committed to promoting unity.”
Now, however, reps for Jackson have since told Variety that Jackson did not authorise such comments. As the publication notes, the singer has actually been managed by her brother Randy for many years.
After being contacted by Variety for comment, Elmasri claimed via email: “I no longer work for her. I was fired by Janet and Randy, after attempts to improve her image in front of public opinion and her fans, and this is something I do not deserve.”
He then added “All my support” to Vice President Harris.
While Jackson’s reps did not immediately have a response for the publication, sources close to her team have told Variety that Elmasri is not known to have been directly associated with the singer.
NME has contacted Jackson’s press representatives for comment.
Jackson and her siblings are said to be mourning the death of their brother, Tito, who died earlier this month.
Elmasri’s IMDB bio says he is an Egyptian Filmmaker who “now works as a creative consultant for many global superstars, including Janet Jackson, Beyoncé, Britney Spears and Selena Gomez“.
Following Jackson’s original remarks, The Guardian interviewer clarified during their conversation that the Vice President is “both” – her father Jamaican and mother Indian.
Jackson is due to embark on the UK and European leg of her ‘Together Again’ tour this week.