Talking Heads’ David Byrne apologises for use of blackface in 1984 concert film

Musician David Byrne has apologised for wearing blackface and brownface in a 1984 concert film.

The Talking Heads star, 68, took to Twitter to address the regrettable moment from his showbiz past and called for accountability and honesty from his followers.

In a series of tweets, David apologised for the use of blackface and brownface in the video.

He penned: “Recently a journalist pointed out something I did in a promo video skit in 1984 for the Talking Heads concert film Stop Making Sense.

“In the piece I appear as a number of different characters interviewing myself, and some of the characters portrayed are people of color.”

He continued: “I’d just about forgotten about this skit and I’m grateful that it has been brought to my attention.”

“To watch myself in the various characters, including black and brown face, I acknowledge it was a major mistake in judgement that showed a lack of real understanding.

“It’s like looking in a mirror and seeing someone else- you’re not, or were not, the person you thought you were.

“We have huge blind spots about ourselves- well, I certainly do.

“I’d like to think I am beyond making mistakes like this, but clearly at the time I was not.

“Like I say at the end of our Broadway show American Utopia “I need to change too”..and I believe I have changed since then.”

David concluded: “One hopes that folks have the grace and understanding to allow that someone like me, anyone really, can grow and change, and that the past can be examined with honesty and accountability.”

The statements were well-received by David’s followers who praised him for his speaking out.

One fan wrote: “Thank you for your integrity, grace and honesty. We can all learn from the past, acknowledge our wrongdoings and work to make the world a kinder and more tolerant place. You are doing that and I thank you”.

Another added: “Well said, and your honesty is most sincerely appreciated. It’s a rare commodity in these times. We are with you brother! Arbutus strong.”

Meanwhile, another concluded: “I’m glad to see you are taking responsibility for your actions, David. I understand people change and I thank you for making us aware of this event. What’s in the past will stay in the past.”

David was part of New Wave rock band Talking Heads from 1975 to 1991, with reunions in 1996 and 2002.

He has also been involved with other bands and has released solo work alongside involvement in Broadway plays, most recently American Utopia.

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