Actor Chris Fountain has been axed from British soap Coronation Street over controversial videos that surfaced online. The actor has said that he ‘completely understands’ the soap’s decision to dismiss him, apologising profusely for any offense he caused.
He was immediately suspended from work when the videos – which show him rapping and making comments about rape and violence – first emerged. ITV today confirmed that his contract has been terminated.
Chris Fountain has been axed from Coronation Street (PR)
Fountain said in a statement:
“I completely understand that ITV had no choice but to terminate my contract today. I have had two wonderful years playing Tommy Duckworth with only happy memories of my time on Coronation Street.
“I am mortified that I have brought so much embarrassment to my colleagues and employers these last few days. My biggest regret however is not to do with losing my job, but that I have hurt and let down so many people including those in a vulnerable situation and I am so very deeply ashamed of this.”
He continued:
“I am also mortified to have put my mother, granddad and girlfriend through the last few days which they are hurt and bewildered by and so do not deserve. I am so sorry.
“The lyrics that appeared online were influenced by a style of hiphop that I was experimenting with at a private freestyle session and blurted out in a moment of madness.”
He added:
“There is absolutely no excuse – I take complete responsibility for my actions – but they were in no way thought out or represent at all my attitude towards women, rape and violence.
“I just want to apologise from the bottom of my heart to everyone who I have offended or upset.”
