Skip to main content

Rob Gronkowski apologizes for racially insensitive comments

After apologizing, Rob Gronkowski will focus his attention on the Carolina Panthers.  (Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

Rob Gronkowski (Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

Rob Gronkowski apologized on Friday for his racially insensitive comments in a video that was posted by TMZ from a viewing party at a restaurant on Sunday.

“I feel bad, personally,” Gronkowski said, adding that he was sorry for offending anyone. “I feel bad. I talked to Joe [the man he mocked in the video], and he assured me he took no offense in any way. I know others did, and I apologize to those who took offense. He’s a good guy, and he’s a friend of mine. He’s a good dude.”

BURKE & FARRAR: Week 11 NFL preview

The Patriots tight end called Joe, who was wearing a Gronkowski jersey, "Leslie Chow," referring to an Asian character in the movie The Hangover.

“They told me he could only cook fried rice," Gronkowski said into a microphone at the party.

When asked on Friday if he was tired of the videos involving famous athletes going viral, Gronkowski said, “I’m here to talk only about the Panthers.”

The Patriots (7-2) play host to the Carolina Panthers (6-3) on Monday night. In three games this season, Gronkowski has 19 catches for 284 yards and a touchdown.

SI WIRE: Adrian Peterson wants to stay in Minnesota