Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch has apologized after describing black people as 'coloured' on US television.
The Oscar nominee used the racial term during a debate on the lack of diversity on British screens on the talk show Tavis Smiley last Wednesday.
After the interview, hundreds took to social media to condemn the actor for his choice of terminology, with many branding it 'racist' and 'inappropriate'.
Last night, Cumberbatch responded by issuing an apology for his 'incorrect' and 'offensive' use of the phrase.
He said: "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."
The 38-year-old actor added: "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 UK and the need for rapid improvements in our industry when I used the term.
"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."
Cumberbatch, who was in Gloucester last week filming scenes for season four of the BBC 1 drama Sherlock, made the gaff while talking about the lack of opportunities for black British actors, saying they have a far better chance of success in Hollywood than Britain.
He told host Smiley that stars such as Idris Elba and David Oyelowo thrive in America more than in their home country referencing films like Selma and 12 Years A Slave – which Cumberbatch also starred in.
"It's an even playing field. [These actors] paid their dues for years by just doing beautiful performances," he said.
"I think as far as coloured actors go it gets really difficult in the UK.
"A lot of my friends have had more opportunities here than in the UK and that's something that needs to change."
After, the interview, hundreds of people took to social media to condemn the actor for his choice of words.
In a statement, British anti-racism educational charity Show Racism the Red Card said the term 'coloured' is now outdated and has the potential to cause offence.
It said: "Benedict Cumberbatch has highlighted a very important issue within the entertainment industry and within society.
"Appropriate terminology differs from country to country; for example, we know that in some countries the term 'coloured' is still widely used, and that in the US the term 'people of colour' is quite common.
"During our work with young people in schools throughout England, we discuss appropriate language to use when describing people of different skin colours and backgrounds and explain why the term 'coloured' is no longer the best way to describe someone."
