TIGHT-LIPPED
JANET Jackson revealed she told Justin Timberlake not to say anything after he exposed her breast at their infamous 2004 Super Bowel halftime performance.
The 55-year-old made the admission during her new Lifetime documentary, titled Janet Jackson.
5
5
In response if she heard from the former NSYNC member following the show, Janet said: "We talked once. And he said, 'you know, I don't know if I should come out and make a statement,' and this and that.
"And I said, 'listen, I don't want any drama for you. They're aiming all of this at me.' So I said, 'if I were you I wouldn't say anything.'"
The documentary also revealed a short clip that the hitmaker filmed, asking fans to "move on" from the incident.
Janet said: "Honestly, this whole thing was blown way out of proportion. Of course it was an accident that should not have happened.
"But everyone is looking for someone to blame and that's gotta stop. Justin and I are very good friends. And we will always be very good friends."
She continued: "We spoke just a few days ago and he and I have moved on. And it's time for everyone else to do the same."
Most read in The Sun
However, Janet revealed how harsh the backlash was after it all went down, revealing that some people would tell her brothers that she should be "put away."
She said: "It can take a toll on you emotionally. I just stayed focused on my work. Stay closed to friends. Stayed in touch with family. And that was enough for me to pull through."
"When you have everyone whispering about you and the majority of you is not favorable that can pull you to a different place."
Justin would end up performing at that year's Grammys as Janet was disinvited.
JUSTIN'S APOLOGY
Justin, 40, did not end up releasing a statement after the 2004 Super Bowl as Janet ended up dealing with the brunt of the backlash.
However, in 2021 amid fans slamming him following his behavior after his split from Britney Spears, the father of two finally spoke up and apologized.
He said: "... I understand that I fell short in these moments and in many others and benefitted 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."
The performer went on to insist he wanted to take "accountability" for his actions, and acknowledged the apology was just a "first step."
Justin and Britney, 40, dated from 1998-2002.
Read More on The Sun
Many believed Justin made Britney into the "villain" of their break-up, which soon led to her downward spiral including drug use accusations and hospitalizations.
5
5
5
Janet Jackson airs tonight in the UK at 9pm on Sky Documentaries, or available to stream on NOW
Topics