AMAs 2016: Gigi Hadid Apologizes for Melania Trump Joke
American Music Awards co-host Gigi Hadid has apologized for her impression of Melania Trump at the ceremony.
Gigi Hadid wrote: “I apologize to anyone that I offended and have only the best wishes for our country.”
Melania Trump is set to become first lady in January when her husband takes up the US presidency.
Gigi Hadid imitated Melania Trump’s European accent, also making reference to claims Donald Trump’s wife copied a speech made by First Lady Michelle Obama.
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“I removed or changed anything in the script that I felt took the joke too far, and whether or not you choose to see it, what remained was done in good humor and with no bad intent,” Gigi wrote.
“I too have been the centre of a nationally televised comedy skit that poked fun at my actions, and was able to find the humor in it.
“I believe Melania understands show business and the way shows are written and run.”
Gigi Hadid’s co-host, Jay Pharoah, called for people to “leave Gigi alone” and shared a message of support on his Instagram feed.
“Everybody pump on the brakes one minute,” he wrote.
“Over the last eight years the beautiful Michelle Obama has been the victim of excessive slurring.”
Reaction on the night to Gigi Hadid’s imitation of Melania Trump was mixed.
Other artists also used the event to pass comment about the forthcoming Trump presidency.
Green Day turned a performance of their track Bang Bang into an anti-Trump song.