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Actor apologizes for calling Chiwetel Ejiofor 'coloured'

'12 Years a Slave' actor, Benedict Cumberbatch apologizes for calling Chiwetel Ejiofor and David Oyelowo 'Coloured'.

British actor, Benedict Cumberbatch recently addressed black people as 'colored' on Tavis Smiley's show.

"I think as far as colored actors go it gets really different in the U.K., and a lot of my friends have had more opportunities here [in the U.S.] than in the U.K., and that's something that needs to change," - He said.

The 'Sherlock' star used the term when he was askedabout black British actors Chiwetel Ejiofor and David Oyelewo achieving success with 12 Years a Slave and Selma, respectively.

His statement however sparked outrage on twitter.

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Following the social media outrage, the 38-year-old actor has released a statement toPeople.

"I'm devastated to have caused offense by using this outmoded terminology. I offer my sincere apologies. I make no excuse for my being an idiot and know the damage is done.

I can only hope this incident will highlight the need for correct usage of terminology that is accurate and inoffensive. The most shaming aspect of this for me is that I was talking about racial inequality in the performing arts in the U.K. and the need for rapid improvements in our industry when I used the term." He continues, "I feel the complete fool I am and while I am sorry to have offended people and to learn from my mistakes in such a public manner please be assured I have.

I apologize again to anyone who I offended for this thoughtless use of inappropriate language about an issue which affects friends of mine and which I care about deeply."

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