After using the N-word while talking to her co-star, the season 9 chief stewardess issues an apology on her social media account, noting that she 'cannot express enough how remorseful' she is.
- December 15, 2021
AceShowbiz - Heather Chase has issued an apology after she said the N-word in front of her co-star Rayna Lindsey. In a statement she shared on her social media page, the "Below Deck" star vowed to "do better."
In a statement posted to her Instagram account on Monday, December 13, the season 9 chief stewardess wrote, "I am sorry for the hurt my ignorance caused Rayna in tonight's episode." She added, "While I apologized to Rayna throughout the season, I cannot express enough how remorseful I am."
"Part of my responsibility as Chief Stewardess is to provide a welcoming, safe environment for the crew and I fell short. Over the past nine months since this episode was filmed, I have learned how my words and actions can affect others," Heather continued. She went on to conclude her statement as saying, "I vow to do better in the future."
In the comment section, however, many Internet users blasted her for her insensitive behavior. "ur in ur mid/late 20's and just now learning ur words can affect others? girl plz," one wrote. Another added, "Ignorance is NO EXCUSE, especially in the year 2021. This is completely and beyond unacceptable." A third simply commented, "Not buying it."
The incident began when Heather and Rayna walked by Jake Foulger as he goofed off in front of them. Rayna referred to him as "this n***a," and Heather, who is white, repeated the remark.
Though Rayna initially laughed it off, she later called Heather out after Heather started rapping to a song with Jake. Rayna said, "You cannot say N***a, you're white as f**k. That's cancel culture, you better be careful with certain words."
"Did I say it? I didn't think I said it, I'm sorry," a stunned Heather responded. Rayna then warned her, "I like you but you gotta be careful. You know how people are. 2021 is… it's not 2002 anymore. I still love you, I'm telling you just be careful." Heather then replied, "I can respect that, thank you."
Rayna didn't hold back as she addressed the incident via a Q&A on her Instagram account. When one fan pointed out how easily the slur came out from Heather's mouth, Rayna replied, "Like I said she says that s**t regularly. Just too comfortable." She also claimed that Captain Lee Rosbach was aware of what occurred but "didn't care" to speak with her and said it was "so hard" for her to watch the episode.
