Updated: Janet Jackson’s representatives have clarified that a recent “apology” regarding her comments about Kamala Harris was not authorized. The statement was issued by Mo Elmasri, a man who falsely claimed to be Jackson’s manager.
Elmasri’s statement, which first appeared in Buzzfeed and was reported by several major outlets, sought to clarify Jackson’s remarks about Harris’ racial background. It read: “Janet Jackson would like to clarify her recent comments. She recognizes that her statements regarding Vice President Kamala Harris’ racial identity were based on misinformation. Janet respects Harris’ dual heritage as both Black and Indian and apologizes for any confusion caused. She values the diversity Harris represents and understands the importance of celebrating that in today’s society. Janet remains committed to promoting unity and understanding.”
However, Jackson has been managed by her brother Randy for many years. Sources indicate that both siblings are currently mourning the death of their brother Tito, who passed away last Sunday at the age of 70.
In an email to Variety, Elmasri claimed, “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 also expressed support for Vice President Harris. However, Jackson’s team has not confirmed any association with Elmasri, who is not recognized as being directly linked to the singer.
Elmasri is listed on the Internet Movie Database as an Egyptian filmmaker and founder of the 24 East Agency, claiming to be a “creative consultant” for various global stars, including Jackson, Beyoncé, Britney Spears, and Selena Gomez. He is credited as an executive producer for the upcoming documentary “Janet Jackson:
Family First,” though his other film credits are uncredited. He sent Jackson’s “apology” to Variety earlier, listing himself as her manager, but the statement was not published until her team clarified it was unauthorized.
Jackson’s original comments about Harris arose during a recent interview with The Guardian. In the interview, she expressed confusion regarding Harris’ racial identity, stating, “Well, you know what they supposedly said? She’s not Black. That’s what I heard. That she’s Indian.” When informed that Harris is both Black and Indian, Jackson persisted, claiming, “Her father’s white. That’s what I was told. I mean, I haven’t watched the news in a few days.”
Her remarks mirrored comments made by former President Donald Trump, who previously suggested that Harris “turned Black” for political reasons. Trump remarked, “She was only promoting Indian heritage… I didn’t know she was Black until a number of years ago.”
Harris’s father is confirmed to be a Jamaican immigrant who came to the U.S. for a PhD in economics, while her mother, who passed away in 2009, was an Indian immigrant.
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