Angela Simmons has apologized for carrying a gun-shaped purse at the 2024 BET Awards, admitting that the decision was “a mistake.”
The daughter of Run-DMC legend Rev. Run received significant criticism for sporting the weapon-themed clutch bag on the red carpet at the ceremony on Sunday (June 30).
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Following the backlash, Simmons shared a video explaining the wardrobe choice and insisted she meant no harm.
“I see a lot of conversation around the purse I wore to the awards,” she said. “Normally, I don’t address rumors and stuff but I’m not like that. I’ve never been like that. I’m not violent.
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“I have obviously been through a lot in my personal life when it comes to gun violence. It’s very personal to me, but I just liked the bag. I thought it was cool and a fashion moment. That was it.
“I didn’t have any intentions of ruffling anyone’s feathers … I’m sorry if it bothered anyone.”
Simmons later issued a lengthy apology on her Instagram Stories in which she expressed “deep regret” for the gun purse.
“I want to address the recent incident involving the green purse I carried at the BET Awards. When I chose the purse, I believed it was cute and unique and I made a poor decision in using it as an accessory to amplify my beauty,” she began.
“I deeply regret that this item, which symbolizes a gun, was inappropriate and insensitive, especially given my personal and community experiences with gun violence.”
She added: “Gun violence is a disease that has taken too many lives, particularly among young people and Black men. By carrying this purse, I did not intend to promote gun violence in any way
“It was a mistake that does not define who I am or my commitment to ending gun violence. To anyone who was hurt or offended by my actions, I offer my deepest apologies.”
Other recent fashion choices from the reality star have garnered a more positive response from fans.
Back in April, Angela Simmons showed off her natural curves in a barely-there swimsuit thirst trap, much to the delight of her followers.
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The 36-year-old, who is currently dating Yo Gotti, captioned the photos with some tropical emojis and tagged the resort she was staying at in Saint Lucia.
“This natural body b killing alllll the did up girls bodies everyyyytimeeee,” one person commented, while another wrote: “I love that she promotes having a natural body & doesn’t always feel the need to filter herself!”
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A third admirer added: “She gave me so much confidence with my body because we’re built similar! I will forever love this Queen!”
