Justin Timberlake has publicly apologized to his wife, actress Jessica Biel, for “a strong lapse of judgement” that was caught on camera.
The "Cry Me A River" singer was snapped late last month holding hands with actress Alisha Wainwright on the balcony of The Absinthe House bar in New Orleans. The two are currently shooting the movie Palmer.
The photos sparked speculation there was trouble in Timberlake’s seven-year marriage to Biel, with whom he has son Silas, 4.
“I stay away from gossip as much as I can, but for my family I feel it is important to address recent rumours that are hurting the people I love,” Timberlake shared on social media.
“A few weeks ago I displayed a strong lapse in judgement – but let me be clear – nothing happened between me and my costar. I drank way too much that night and I regret my behavior.”
The 38-year-old pop star admitted: “I should have known better. This is not the example I want to set for my son.”
Timberlake apologized to his “amazing wife and family for putting them through such an embarrassing situation” and said he is “focused on being the best husband and father I can be.
“This was not that,” he added.
UK tabloid The Sun acquired photos and video of Timberlake and Wainwright, 30, that showed him grabbing her hand and placing it on his knee. She appears to gently stroke his leg.
Read Timberlake's full statement below: