Johnny Depp - Johnny Depp Issues 'Heartfelt Apology' For Rape Remarks

Following an outcry on Twitter, with some users describing Depp's remarks as insensitive and offensive, the actor issued a statement on Wednesday morning (5th October 2011), saying, "I am truly sorry for offending anyone in any way. I never meant to. It was a poor choice of words on my part in an effort to explain a feeling". The actor had been criticised by the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (Rainn), whose spokesperson Katherine Hull said, "While photos may feel at times intrusive, being photographed in no way compares to rape - a violent crime which affects another American every two minutes.Rainn welcomes the opportunity to speak with Mr. Depp and educate him about the real life experiences faced by survivors every day, and ways that he can work with Rainn to help". The 'Pirates of the Caribbean' star acknowledged the criticism in his statement, adding, "I understand there is no comparison and I am very regretful. In an effort to correct my lack of judgment, please accept my heartfelt apology".

Depp is currently promoting his long-delayed adaptation of Hunter S. Thompson's novel 'The Rum Diary', in which he plays journalist Paul Kemp who travels to Puerto Rico to write for a local newspaper.