Jared Padalecki has issued an apology for a social media post expressing support for gossip blogger Perez Hilton, which drew backlash from users who brought Hilton's past conduct to the actor's attention.
In a series of tweets over the weekend, Padalecki, 44, initially reached out to Hilton, whose real name is Mario Armando Lavandeira Jr., following his hospitalization. "Hey @PerezHilton. Just wanted to reach out and let you know that you’re in my thoughts," Padalecki wrote. "This ‘being human’ is a strange thing. Exhilarating. Exhausting. Fast. Slow. Wonderful… and… at times… awful."
He added, "I hope you are trying as best as you can to be kind to yourself right now. Please surround yourself with the love and support that all humans deserve."
Padalecki subsequently deleted the tweet amid criticism and shared a more detailed explanation, stating he had "ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA about his past." He acknowledged hearing that Hilton "hadn’t exactly ‘been kind’ to me in the past" but maintained he had never looked up Hilton's websites.
"I simply thought he was a ‘tabloid’ type of sensationalist journalist," Padalecki explained. "I DO NOT stand for, or support, ANY of the actions I just now found out that he has committed. Full stop."
Padalecki further elaborated on his philosophy of extending grace and forgiveness. "In my experience, it usually works out better than holding a grudge or wishing punishment on someone else," he tweeted.
He apologized for his "words caus[ing] any harm" and concluded by wishing his followers well.
Hilton, 48, was hospitalized on August 4 after police responded to calls reporting a "suicide attempt" at his Miami home. His family stated that he is in "serious but stable" condition and will require surgery for significant blood loss and additional injuries. His communication has been limited, and his children are being cared for by family.
Hilton himself recently stated on Sean Hannity's show that he had privately made amends with celebrities he had negatively impacted with his blog.