Why did Usher back down on Brown criticism?2009-03-09

As brutal details emerged in the Chris Brown-Rihanna assault case, observers were left to wonder why some celebrities who spoke out against Brown’s behavior later softened their stances.

xhibit 1-A is Usher, who chastised Brown for not showing remorse and instead going water-skiing in Miami over the weekend.

But then Usher soft-pedaled, issuing a March 3 statement saying, "The comments made during a recent recording session amongst friends were taken out of context and blown out of proportion. I apologize on behalf of myself and my friends if anyone was offended. The intentions were not to pass judgment and we meant no harm. I respect and wish the best for all parties involved."

What? The state of California has an issue with Brown’s behavior but Usher doesn’t?

Not necessarily. According to a friend of Rihanna’s, the apology is meant as a sign of support for her, not Brown.

“Everybody loves Rihanna," the friend said. "They don’t necessarily want her with Chris, but the second it was clear she was back with him, all of her friends rallied around her, stopped saying bad things about Chris. It might be what they’re thinking, but more than anything she needs support. And that’s what she’ll get.”

Share