Lalla Hirayama Says Sorry for TikTok Video

Media personality, Lalla Hirayama, has issued an apology after she was criticised for ridiculing coloured women in a recent TikTok parody video.

In the 29-second clip posted to the platform – on which anyone can share short-form mobile videos – Hirayama is seen mimicking a coloured woman singing an adapted version of ‘2 Legit 2 Quit’ by MC Hammer.

Fans lashed out at the “SA’s Got Talent” judge, accusing her of enforcing stereotypes of coloured women due to her exaggerated facial expressions and gestures.

Responding to the backlash last Thursday, 16 April, Hirayama apologised for the offensive video.

In a statement posted to Twitter, she wrote: “I made a TikTok video … which was offensive to some of my fellow South Africans. Also, I published it during a time when we each face new and unfamiliar pressures.”

Explaining that she was still learning about how to use TikTok in a way that is respectful to a local audience, Hirayama added: “My efforts were intended only to be entertaining … [I] am sorry to know that it angered people … it was not meant to offend any race.”

Image Credit: Source