Journalist Gayle King defends Justin Timberlake after his DWI arrest, calling it a “mistake,” but faces backlash for downplaying the seriousness of drunk driving.
Bollywood Fever: Gayle King recently spoke out in defense of singer Justin Timberlake following his shocking arrest for allegedly driving while intoxicated. The prominent journalist emphasized that Timberlake is not “reckless” or “careless,” describing the incident as a “mistake.” However, King’s comments have sparked criticism from those who feel she downplayed the potential dangers of drunk driving.
Gayle King Speaks Out In Defense Of Justin Timberlake
Since Timberlake’s DWI arrest, the singer has faced significant online backlash, with many labeling his behavior as “reckless” and “irresponsible.” On Wednesday’s episode of CBS Morning, King addressed the situation, defending Timberlake’s character and describing him as a “really great guy.”
“Justin Timberlake is a really, really great guy,” King said. “Listen, this is clearly a mistake — I bet nobody knows it more than he does.”
When co-host Nate Burleson referred to the incident as a “stupid mistake,” King agreed, adding that Timberlake is aware of his actions. “He’s not an irresponsible person, he’s not reckless, he’s not careless. Clearly, this is not a good thing, but he knows that,” she stated.
King also referenced Billy Joel’s reaction to the incident, noting his advice to reserve judgment. “I loved when they stopped Billy Joel, and he said, ‘Wait, not everybody judge at this particular time,'” King said, quoting People magazine. She added, “Driving drunk, there is never any excuse for that ever.”
Gayle King Faces Backlash For Defending Timberlake
King’s remarks have not been well received by everyone. Many people online have criticized her for seemingly glossing over the serious consequences of drunk driving.
One comment on X read, “It’s clearly a mistake until he kills someone drunk driving…” Another user questioned, “Why is Gayle King being allowed to rubber stamp this nonsense? LOL”
“No, screw that. There’s no excuse for driving under the influence. Take an Uber back home and pick up your car at a later date,” wrote another user. A fourth person added, “He drank and made a decision to drive while impaired that could have killed innocent people. Why are you trying to give him a pass? Because he’s white? I’d understand it a little more if he was younger, but not at his age. 43 is supposed to know better.”
Another user commented, “What is going on with Gayle? This is odd. You don’t defend driving under the influence. Get an Uber or have a driver. He can afford a driver.”
Justin Timberlake’s Arrest Details
On Tuesday, law enforcement sources told TMZ that Timberlake was stopped by police shortly after midnight after running a stop sign. Officers followed him as he swerved on the road, prompting them to pull him over. Timberlake failed a field sobriety test and refused to take a breathalyzer test.
Reports indicate that Timberlake’s friends were present at the scene and attempted to persuade the officers to let him go, but their pleas were unsuccessful. Timberlake was subsequently handcuffed and arrested. His mugshot, released after his arraignment, showed him with bloodshot, glassy eyes and a strong odor of alcohol, confirming the police reports.
Jessica Biel’s Reaction
According to sources, Timberlake’s wife, Jessica Biel, has been standing by her husband despite feeling “embarrassed” by the incident. Biel, who is currently filming her new Prime Video series “The Better Sister” in New York City, is reportedly disappointed but supportive.
An insider told the Daily Mail, “Jessica is disappointed but he is her husband so she is by his side and will have his back through all of it. She would like Justin to curb his drinking, so he never gets into a situation like this ever again. She is treating it like a slap on the wrist and is hoping that it doesn’t lead to anything more severe in the future.”
As Timberlake prepares to fight the DWI allegations, the public and media attention surrounding the incident and King’s comments highlight the complex and often contentious nature of public reactions to celebrity misconduct.
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