Gigi Hadid says she’s sorry for impersonating Melania Trump at AMAs after being savaged on Twitter
The 21-year-old cover girl mocked the First Lady-to-be's accent in sketch during awards ceremony on Sunday
SUPERSTAR model Gigi Hadid has apologised for her controversial impersonation of Melania Trump at the American Music Awards on Sunday.
Gigi has today spoken out about the controversial joke after social media users came out in droves to slam the sketch.
Writing on Twitter, Gigi issued an apology to “anyone that I offended”.
During the show, she had pretended to be Melania as she said: “I love my husband, President Barack Obama.
“And our children Sasha and Malia.”
The model was referencing accusations that Melania copied Michelle Obama’s speech at the Republican National Convention earlier this year.
She had earlier quipped, “I gotta get her face right,” as she put on a pout and squinted her eyes.
The skit, which Gigi performed as part of her debut hosting gig alongside comedian and impressionist Jay Pharoah, was heavily criticised by viewers, who blasted it as “racist” and suggested she should “stick to modelling”.
Gigi has now penned a hand-written letter apologising for the controversial impersonation.
The note, posted to her Twitter account, reads: “I was honoured to host the AMAs last night and to work with some of the most respected writers in the business.
“I removed or changed anything in the script that I felt took the joke too far, and whether or not you choose to see it, what remained was done in good humour with no bad intent.
“I too have been the centre of a nationally televised comedy skit that poked fun at my actions, and was able to find the humour in it.”
She ended the letter by saying sorry: “I apologise to anyone that I offended & have only the best wishes for our country. Respectfully x Gigi.”
Meanwhile, her co-host Jay posted a note to his Facebook on Monday, defending the cover girl.
Pointing out that current First Lady Michelle Obama has been called a slew of insulting names during her time in the White House, he said Gigi “exaggerated a speech that actually happened, where Melania clearly plagiarised.”
He continued: “Didn’t call her ugly, manish, or anything, and everybody LOSES IT?! Really?”
The event was Gigi’s first attempt at hosting.
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