Erich Schwer, a contestant on The Bachelorette, has expressed regret when an old yearbook picture of him in blackface surfaced.
As he attempted to win the final rose from Gabby Windey, 31, Schwer, 29, has emerged as the final survivor in the man.
But only days after, the questionable high school picture of Schwer started circulating on the internet.
Schwer appeared in both a standard yearbook photo and another one that was uploaded to Reddit while using blackface and an afro wig.
Schwer apologised for his conduct in a message posted on Instagram on Thursday.
“I sincerely apologise for the offensive picture of me in Blackface that has been circulating from my high school yearbook. What I mistakenly believed to be a symbol of my devotion to Jimi Hendrix at the time was really just ignorance, he said.
“I was unaware of the negative effects my actions would have on the Black community and the people closest to me, and I will always regret my hurtful and destructive actions.” I am very embarrassed of what I did, and I realise that my apology is simply the first step in accepting responsibility,’ he said.
Fans thanked Schwer for apologising.
“Admission and repentance are all that are necessary. Keep going, keep getting better,” one person commented.
Schwer apologised for his conduct in a message posted on Instagram on Thursday.
The best action you can take right now is to demonstrate that you truly believe in taking responsibility. That is the proper form of apologies. I wish you luck,” was another addition.
The criticism was far harsher on Twitter.
I get that Erich apologised for using blackface in high school, but let’s be honest—had the picture never surfaced—he would never have done so for the #bachelorette.
Upon hearing that Erich had just worn blackface, I retract it. One person said, “I can’t endorse such rubbish.
‘I lied. not endorsing Erich and Gabby. and the consequences of his being revealed for wearing blackface if she remains with him. Another person remarked, “She’s in for an unpleasant awakening.”