Punk rock iconHenry Rollinshas apologized for criticizingRobin Williamsover the actor's suicide, saying that it was "not of my interest to hurt anyone but I know I did."
In theoriginal columnhe wrote forLA Weekly,RollinsblastedWilliamsfor the devastating effect his death will have had on his three children. While recognizingWilliams' magnificent career and undisputable talent,Rollinsexplained that he regards people who have committed suicide "with a bit of disdain." "I know they existed, yet they have nullified their existence because they willfully removed themselves from life," he wrote. "They were real but now they are not.
Following the public outcry over his comments,Rollinstook to hisFacebookpage to apologize for damage his words caused. He wrote: "For the last 9+ hours, I have been answering letters from people from all over the world. The anger is off the scale and in my opinion, well placed.
"The article I wrote in theLA Weeklyabout suicide caused a lot of hurt. This is perhaps one of the bigger understatements of all time. I read all the letters. Some of them were very long and the disappointment, resentment and ringing clarity was jarring.
"That I hurt anyone by what I said, and I did hurt many, disgusts me. It was not at all my intent but it most certainly was the result.
"I have had a life of depression. Some days are excruciating. Knowing what I know and having been through what I have, I should have known better but I obviously did not. I get so mad when I hear that someone has died this way. Not mad at them, mad at whatever got them there and that no one magically appeared to somehow save them.
"I am not asking for a break from the caning, take me to the woodshed as much as you see fit. If what I said has caused you to be done with me, I get it.
"I wrote something for theLA Weeklythat they will post on Monday.
"I wanted to get this out at this moment.
"I am deeply sorry. Down to my marrow. I can't think that means anything to you, but I am. Completely sorry. It is not of my interest to hurt anyone but I know I did. Thank you for reading this."
Rollinswas not the first rocker to apologize for comments about depression and suicide. Last weekKISSbassist/vocalistGene Simmonsclarified comments he made in July - prior toWilliams' death - which caused outrage among many fans and celebrities.Simmonsadmitted in his apology he made the comments in "the spur of the moment" and without "regard for those who truly suffer the struggles of depression."
