Anne-Marie Issues Sincere Apology After Appearing In TV Sketch Where Ant & Dec Wore Headbands With Controversial Japan’s Rising Sun Flag

Singer Anne-Marie issues mortified apology after appearing in TV sketch where Ant & Dec wore headbands displaying Japan’s controversial Rising Sun flag

Anne-Marie has taken to social media to issue a mortified apology after she appeared in a television sketch in which Ant & Dec wore headbands displaying Japan’s Rising Sun flag. The singer, 28, appeared on Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway last night, during which the two hosts wore headbands which included the controversial symbol.  There were recently calls to ban the flag, which was accepted as the naval ensign of the Imperial Japanese Navy in the 19th century, from the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.

South Korea’s sports ministry made the request to the International Olympic Committee last September, claiming the flag defies the peaceful spirit of the Olympics as it is a symbol of Japan’s imperialist past.

Anne-Marie took to Twitter on Sunday to apologise to her 679,000 followers for the use of the symbol: “I sincerely apologise to all those who were affected and hurt by my appearance last night on a UK TV [show],“ she said.

“I want you to know that I had nothing to do with the costumes on this sketch.“

“Unfortunately education on this part of the history wasn’t done and I am also hurt by the pain this signifies for so many people.“

“I am truly sorry and I promise you that this will not happen again.“

“Our team is talking to the TV station, working on taking down the footage so that it does not cause any more pain [sic].“

‘Truly sorry!’ Anne Marie insisted ‘I am also hurt by the pain this signifies for so many people’

ITV told MailOnline: “We apologise for any offence caused during the End of the Show Show by the costumes worn.“ “This was clearly unintended and we have taken steps to re-edit that part of the episode for the Hub and for repeat broadcasts.“

MailOnline has contacted Ofcom regarding the sketch. It said the show had received several complaints, none of them relating to the sketch with Anne Marie. Ofcom said two complaints had been against a segment with Anthony Joshua and another had been to do with a cake being dropped on the floor.

Taking to Twitter, one viewer said: “Thank you for apologising for that, and I’m glad you mentioned it without condoning it.“

“ hope this never happens again. From Korean fans cheering for Anne-Marie Smiling face with smiling eyes [sic].“

A third typed: “The rising sun flag signifies the most painful era of Korean history during WWII, and I am thankful that you addressed the problem quickly. Love you as always xxx [sic].“

“I fully understand your mind. I wish you are OK. And I hope to see you in Korea soon. Take care of your health and love you xx [sic],“ wrote another.

The Rising Sun flag is currently flown by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and was originally used by feudal warlords in Japan during the Edo Period.