Janet Jackson said she and Justin Timberlake have 'moved on' after Super Bowl controversy and urged fans 'to do the same'
Advertisement
Lauren Edmonds
Jan 30, 2022, 22:28 IST
Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson performing at the 2004 Super Bowl.KMazur/Getty Images
Janet Jackson spoke about her relationship with Justin Timberlake in her documentary.
Jackson, 55, said the incident was "blown way out of proportion."
Advertisement
Janet Jackson opened up about her relationship with Justin Timberlake after their 2004 Super Bowl Halftime Show became a national controversy.
In her new self-titled docuseries, which premiered on A&E and Lifetime on Friday and Saturday, Jackson, 55, knocked down rumors that there was still tension between her and Timberlake, 40, since Super Bowl XXXVIII. Timberlake joined Jackson onstage for a surprise performance, but he accidentally tore her costume, barring her breast on live TV.
Insider's Kim Renfro reported that the incident — which became known as "nipplegate" — caused Jackson's career to stall while Timberlake's flourished.
"Honestly, this whole thing was blown way out of proportion. And, of course, it was an accident that should not have happened, but everyone is looking for someone to blame and that's got to stop," Jackson said in a video recorded for fans.
Jackson continued that she and Timberlake are "good friends."
Advertisement
"Justin and I are very good friends, and we will always be very good friends," Jackson said. "We spoke just a few days ago. He and I have moved on, and it's time for everyone else to do the same."
Representatives for Jackson and Timberlake did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.
After the 2004 incident, MTV and Timberlake released statements regarding the "wardrobe malfunction." Jackson later released a statement that claimed that a "costume reveal" had been planned after final rehearsals.
Jackson was essentially blacklisted from the entertainment industry, with her music being removed from radio stations and her scheduled Grammy performance canceled.
A post shared by Justin Timberlake (@justintimberlake)
"I understand that I fell short in these moments and in many others and benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism. I specifically want to apologize to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson both individually, because I care for and respect these women and I know I failed," he wrote.
The documentary is available to watch on Lifetime and A&E.
{{}}
NewsletterSIMPLY PUT - where we join the dots to inform and inspire you. Sign up for a weekly brief collating many news items into one untangled thought delivered straight to your mailbox.