Angela Simmons has apologized for carrying a gun-shaped purse to the 2024 BET Awards, admitting the decision was “a mistake.”
The daughter of Run-DMC legend Rev. Run received significant criticism for sporting a gun-themed handbag on the red carpet at Sunday’s (June 30) ceremony.
Following the backlash, Simmons shared a video explaining her outfit choice and insisted she had no ill intentions.
“I see a lot of talk about the bag I took to the awards,” she said. “I don’t normally talk about rumors or things like that, but I’m not like that. I’ve never been like that. I’m not violent.”
“Obviously, I’ve been through a lot in my personal life when it comes to gun violence. It’s a very personal thing for me, but I just liked the bag. I thought it was cool and a fashion moment. That was it.”
“I didn’t mean to hurt anyone’s feelings… I’m sorry if I upset anyone.”
Simmons later issued a lengthy apology on her Instagram Stories in which she expressed her “deep regret” over the gun bag.
“I want to address the recent incident with the green bag I carried at the BET Awards. When I chose the bag, I thought it was cute and unique and I made a bad decision by using it as an accessory to amplify my beauty,” she began.
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“I deeply regret that this object, symbolizing a weapon, was inappropriate and insensitive, especially given my personal and community experiences with gun violence.”
He added: “Gun violence is a disease that has claimed far too many lives, especially among young people and black men. By carrying this bag, I did not intend to promote gun violence in any way.”
“This was a mistake that does not define who I am or my commitment to ending gun violence. To anyone who was hurt or offended by my actions, I offer my sincerest apologies.”
The reality star’s other recent fashion choices have garnered a more positive response from fans.
In April, Angela Simmons showed off her natural curves in a barely-there swimsuit, much to the delight of her followers.
The 36-year-old, who is currently dating Yo Gotti, captioned the photos with some tropical emojis and tagged the resort she was staying at in St. Lucia.
“This natural body is killing all the makeup girl bodies all the time,” one person commented, while another wrote, “I love that she promotes having a natural body and doesn’t always feel the need to filter!”
A third admirer added: “She gave me so much confidence with my body because we have a similar build! I will always love this Queen!”
