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Leno apologises
Tonight Show host apologises for gay jibe
"I certainly didn't mean any malice. I agree it was a dumb thing to say"
The interview with Phillippe, which aired on March 19 went awry when talking about Phillippe’s early role on the US soap One Life to Live. His character caused great controversy as it had been one of the first times a gay teenager was portrayed in mainstream television.
The Emmy Award-winning American comedian and television host asked Phillippe to give him his “gayest look.”
"Say that camera was your gay lover," Leno said to Phillippe. "Give that camera your gayest look. Say that camera is Billy Bob who's just ridden in shirtless from Wyoming."
"Wow," said Phillippe uncomfortably. "That is so something I don't want to do."
However the 58 year old host has since apologized for his offensive remarks.
"In talking about Ryan's first role, I realize that what I said came out wrong," said Jay Leno.
"I certainly didn't mean any malice. I agree it was a dumb thing to say, and I apologise."
President of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), Neil G. Giuliano, also commented in support of Ryan's handling of the situation:
"We are proud of Ryan for refusing to participate in Leno's thoughtless attempt at humour. Under the guise of comedy, the talk-show host is demonstrating a lack of respect for the gay community and insensitivity to both his co-workers and the audience."
