‘The Power of the Dog’ director Jane Campion has found herself in some hot water.
Now, she is apologizing for a “thoughtless comment” she made about Serena and Venus Williams.
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It all began on March 13, when Campion won best director at the Critics Choice Awards, an event that Serena and Venus were attending since the film about their father – ‘King Richard’ – was nominated.
During her acceptance speech, she went on to acknowledge their presence, saying: “Venus and Serena, what an honor to be in the room with you.”
She then thanked her fellow directors before circling back to the tennis pros, saying: “I’d also just like to give my love out to my fellow – the guys. And Serena and Venus, you are such marvels. However, you do not play against the guys like I have to.”
Her remarks were quickly deemed “racist” and “backhanded” across social media. After much criticism across all fronts, this led Campion to apologize. She said:
“The fact is the Williams sisters have, actually, squared off against men on the court (and off), and they have both raised the bar and opened doors for what is possible for women in this world.”
“The last thing I would ever want to do is minimize remarkable women. I love Serena and Venus. Their accomplishments are titanic and inspiring. Serena and Venus, I apologize and completely celebrate you.”
Across their careers, the Williams sisters have landed 122 singles titles and three Olympic gold medals between them and have won several mixed doubles against men.
As of reporting, neither sister has commented on the situation.