Phylicia Rashad may be revered for being one of American television’s most iconic matriarchs, but it didn’t stop her from receiving an avalanche of critique for publicly supporting Bill Cosby.
As reported, the actress celebrated the 83-year-old’s release from prison following the controversial overturning of his conviction for sexual assault.
Rashad’s comments came a day before she commenced her role as the new dean of the Howard University College of Fine Arts.
Now, in a unique turn of events, the 73-year-old has issued a letter expressing her “most sincere apology” to students and their parents.
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CNN obtained the letter, which read:
“My remarks were in no way directed towards survivors of sexual assault. I vehemently oppose sexual violence, find no excuse for such behavior, and I know that Howard University has a zero-tolerance policy toward interpersonal violence.”
The star – who appeared alongside Bill in ‘The Cosby Show’ – added that over the next few weeks she will “engage in active listening and participate in trainings to not only reinforce University protocol and conduct, but also to learn how I can become a stronger ally to sexual assault survivors and everyone who has suffered at the hands of an abuser.”
Rashad’s latest comments follow a statement from Howard, which voiced similar support for victims of sexual assault and created a demarkation from her initial Cosby support.