Actor Issues Apology After Controversial Interview
Matt Damon has denied using a homophobic slur “in his personal life” after facing backlash for comments made in a recent interview. In a discussion with The Sunday Times, the Oscar-winning actor revealed that he had “retired” the f-slur following a conversation with his daughter, who explained why the word was harmful.
Damon, recalling the incident, said that the term was once commonly used during his childhood with a different connotation. However, he acknowledged his daughter’s strong response after he used the word in a joke, which led to him reflecting on its impact. “She went to her room and wrote a very long, beautiful treatise on how that word is dangerous. I said, ‘I retire the f-slur!’ I understood,” he said.
Despite his efforts to clarify his position, Damon has faced criticism from LGBTQ+ activists who feel his remarks were inappropriate and insensitive, particularly given the actor’s prominence. This is not the first time Damon has been embroiled in controversy; in 2017, he issued an apology for comments regarding sexual assault that were deemed problematic.
The latest comments have sparked discussions about the evolving language around homophobia and the responsibilities of public figures to set positive examples.
