AceShowbiz -

Sean Penn and Lee Daniels have settled their feud. The actor throws out his $10 million defamation lawsuit against the "Empire" creator after the latter offered a public apology and made a donation to his nonprofit organization.

Penn sued Daniels for comparing him to Terrence Howard. Daniels apparently referred to the numerous reports about Penn assaulting Madonna during their relationship in the 1980s. While Howard had admitted to hitting women, Penn vehemently denied the domestic violence accusations against him.

"I am so sorry that I have hurt you, Sean," Daniels says, "and I apologize and retract my reckless statements about you. How thoughtless of me. You are someone I consider a friend, a brilliant actor and true Hollywood legend and humanitarian."

He adds, "I too have been the subject of false attacks by others, like those made here. My most important role is as a father, and it is important to me that my children learn that it is wrong to reference gossip as fact, as I did here. That can be very damaging and hurtful Domestic violence is a very serious issue."

"My comments were cavalier; it was not my intention to diminish the severity of the issue, but rather to express a view regarding the disparate treatment of men of color in our national conversation. I apologize again for the distress that this has caused you and your family."

Penn responds, "I accept Lee's heartfelt apology and appreciate the sincerity with which it was delivered. I also accept and appreciate his generous donation to J/P HRO, which will have a transformative effect on the lives of those we serve in Haiti."