Ali Abbasi says sorry over 'groping' allegation

Ali Abbasi is "truly sorry" for making an unnamed actor "uncomfortable" with his alleged inappropriate behaviour. 

The Apprentice director was reported to have "groped" a mystery A-lister at a Golden Globes afterparty last month and while he has described the gesture as him being "over-familiar" with someone he knew by giving them a "playful slap on the rear", he insisted he had said sorry immediately when he realised the gesture had backfired. 

He said in a statement: “I fully understand that my action made someone uncomfortable, regardless of my intent, and for that I am truly sorry. 

"I had spent time with the person concerned on multiple occasions and had reason to think we had a friendly relationship. 

“When I saw him at the Golden Globes party, I was excited to reconnect. I made an over-familiar gesture — a slap on the rear — which I intended as playful and not in any sexual way whatsoever. 

"I quickly realised I had misjudged the situation. I apologised to him on the spot, and the following day I made sure my apology was reiterated through my representatives.” 

Deadline reported the incident and revealed he had parted ways with Creative Artist Agency (CAA) — who also represent the unnamed actor — and Management 360 talent agency, but Ali insisted the two were not connected. 

He added: “The suggestion that I was dropped by my representation due to this interaction is false. 

"My decision to part ways was a long-term career decision that was not shaped by short-term motivations.  

"I believe in taking accountability for my actions; I made a mistake, I apologised and have learned a valuable life lesson. 

"I remain grateful for the incredible work of our cast, crew and supporters on The Apprentice, and I hope the focus stays on their achievements.” 

The filmmaker had earlier confirmed he had left his agencies and was taking his career in a "new direction". 

He told Deadline: “I can confirm that I’ve made the decision to move in a new direction with my career. I’m grateful for the work CAA and Entertainment 360 have done, particularly their commitment to The Apprentice, which remains a project I’m incredibly proud of. I look forward to announcing my next steps at the appropriate time.” 

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