Iggy Azalea apologises for cancelling LGBT concert over alleged homophobic tweets: 'I meant no harm'
Australian rapper Iggy Azalea has issued an apology for cancelling her performance at an LGBT concert, after alleged homophobic tweets she posted on Twitter were exposed.
The Fancy hitmaker was due to perform at the Pittsburgh Pride on 13 June but after protesting and boycott from supporters of the LBGT community, the rapper buckled under the pressure and pulled out.
In her apology posted on Twitter, the 25-year-old said: "I am truly disappointed that I have to share the news, but I will no longer be performing at Pittsburgh Pride on June 13th."
Referring to the homophobic and racist comments she is said to have posted on Twitter many years before she enjoyed chart success, Azalea explained: "Unfortunately in the past as a young person, I used words I should not have.
"The last thing I want is for something so carelessly said to be interpreted as reflective of my character. I meant no harm and deeply regret ever uttering those words."
She added: "As an adult I would never use them because I understand they play a detrimental role in the fight for issues that I do truly believe in."
The Trouble rapper concluded her statement by saying "sorry" to those she has "offended or disappointed".
Since Azalea's withdrawal from the concert, the musician has received a mixed reaction from fans with some condemning the star for her comments and others sympathising that she was young at the time.
Despite her cancellation, organisers of the event have supported the Grammy-winner and also their decision to book her for the performance despite objections within the community.
The Delta Foundation said in its statement: "Since our initial announcement we have been working very closely with Ms Azalea's management, publicists and agent regarding the concerns of some of our community...
"We're sorry that our headliner choice caused a division within our community but we believe that change happens through conversation. We are meeting with key LGBT leaders to start a discussion that will make our collective community even stronger."
IBTimes UK has contacted Azalea's rep for comment.
Following an incredibly successful 2014, the Black Widow chart-topper has experienced a string of setbacks in her career throughout 2015.
After initially rescheduling her Great Escape world tour in March, the rapper announced in May that she was cancelling the jaunt entirely.
There is still hope for fans though as the rapper revealed plans to finally head out on the road in 2016.
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