LOS ANGELES, Sept 24: Janet Jackson is at the center of controversy following an unauthorized “apology” from Mo Elmasri, who claimed to be her manager. The statement, first reported by BuzzFeed, aimed to address what Elmasri described as “racist and unbalanced statements” made by Jackson in a Sept. 21 interview with the Guardian, where she questioned Vice President Kamala Harris’s racial identity.

Jackson’s representative clarified that Elmasri has no affiliation with her, noting that her actual manager is her brother, Randy Jackson. The siblings are currently mourning the loss of their older brother, Tito, who passed away on Sept. 15.

In the Guardian interview, Jackson made false claims about Harris, suggesting she is not Black, despite Harris’s mixed heritage of Jamaican and Indian descent. Jackson stated, “Well, you know what they supposedly said? She’s not Black. That’s what I heard,” to which she received clarification on Harris’s background.

In response to the backlash, Elmasri issued a statement that Jackson’s comments were based on “misinformation,” expressing regret for her remarks. He claimed he was fired by the Jacksons after attempting to help her reform her image following the controversial interview.

Fans expressed disappointment on social media, calling Jackson’s statements “ignorant” and “disappointing.” Amid the confusion, Elmasri’s unauthorized apology gained traction, prompting Jackson’s representatives to confirm it was not approved by the singer.

Elmasri reiterated his support for Harris, despite the backlash, stating he aimed to improve Jackson's public image. Jackson has generally kept her political views private but has previously partnered with organizations like Girls Leadership to empower young women.