The 44-year-old singer did not realize that the country 'has social issue happening right now involving indigenous people and alcohol.'
- Feb 21, 2016
AceShowbiz - Rob Thomas got into hot water when performing solo in Melbourne, Australia on Friday, February 19. The Matchbox 20 frontman did not realize that he offended the country who has a history of alcohol abuse among its natives.
The 44-year-old told the audience about his long flight to Down Under, saying, "I drink til I think I'm Australian." That comment was responded with laughters but then he added, "And then I keep drinking til I think I'm a black Australian." According to TMZ that obtained the footage, his comment immediately invited collective groans and boos.
Thomas kept talking without apologizing but he thought about it overnight and released a statement the next day. "Please understand that although is it no excuse, I was completely unaware that in Australia there is a polarizing social issue happening right now involving indigenous people and alcohol," he wrote on Facebook. "I'm sitting here in my hotel room completely gutted that a joke that I made was much more relevant to the times in Australia than I realized."
He continued, "I know that words are just words, but to those I offended, I deeply, DEEPLY apologize! Everyone who knows me is aware that for the past 20 years I have been a fervent supporter of civil rights, so I am incredibly embarrassed by my ignorance. I feel like a fool and apologize to all Australians."
One fan defended him via Twitter, saying Thomas was speaking while they were experiencing technical difficulties. But some won't take it lightly. "Too far Rob Thomas! Stick to singing, you touche. #proudtobeanaboriginalaustralian," someone tweeted.
