Jason Alexander apologizes for 2012 Funny or Die sketch involving then-teen Courtney Stodden
The former "Seinfeld" star issued a public apology for a 2012 comedy sketch that featured a 17-year-old Courtney Stodden in a sexually suggestive scene, and the actress called for further action on child-marriage legislation.
Jason Alexander, best known for his role on "Seinfeld," issued a public apology on Tuesday for his participation in a 2012 Funny or Die sketch that depicted a teenage Courtney Stodden in a sexually suggestive manner. In the video, Alexander’s character, a faux life coach, pressed a phone to Stodden’s breasts and later placed his hands on her knees while she sat beside her then-husband, actor Doug Hutchison.
"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. But more importantly, I am deeply sorry for any harm or distress it has caused Ms. Stodden. I offer her my sincerest apologies," Alexander said in a statement released to media outlets.
Stodden, who attracted attention in 2011 for marrying Hutchison at age 16, responded on Wednesday, acknowledging the apology but emphasizing that a private apology would be more meaningful and that concrete actions, such as supporting a California bill to end child marriage, would carry greater weight.
"People keep asking if he’s apologized privately, and he hasn’t. A private apology would meaningful, but meaningful action would be even more powerful," Stodden said.
She had earlier posted on Instagram criticizing Alexander’s involvement, noting that he was credited as a writer for the sketch and stating that she saw no comedy in a joke that used a 17-year-old’s body.
A spokesperson for Alexander did not immediately respond to requests for comment.