Jason Alexander, known for his role as George Costanza in "Seinfeld," has issued an apology for an "inappropriate" comedy sketch he participated in with reality television personality Courtney Stodden in 2012. At the time of the sketch, Stodden was 17 years old.
In a statement provided to U.S. publications, Alexander stated, "Looking back at the comedy sketch in which Ms Stodden and I participated in 2012, I completely agree that it was inappropriate and I truly regret it." He added, "But more importantly, I am deeply sorry for any harm or distress it has caused Ms Stodden. I offer her my sincerest apologies."
Stodden, now 31, is actively campaigning for California to pass a bill that would ban child marriage by setting the legal minimum age at 18. Stodden's own marriage to actor Doug Hutchison in 2011, at the age of 16, was legal due to parental consent. The couple divorced in 2020.
According to data from the source, marrying at 16 or 17 remains legal in 33 U.S. states, provided parental consent or a judicial waiver is obtained. This practice was legally permissible in every state until 2018.
Stodden told The Hollywood Reporter that she "appreciated" Alexander's apology. While acknowledging that a private apology would be meaningful, Stodden emphasized that "meaningful action would be even more powerful." She invited Alexander to support the campaign group Unchained At Last and its efforts to end child marriage through AB 1267, suggesting this as a way to translate accountability into lasting change.
Alexander's career includes roles in "ER," "Pretty Woman," and "Shallow Hal," in addition to "Seinfeld." Stodden has been featured on reality shows such as "Couples Therapy," "Celebrity Big Brother," and "Celebs Go Dating."