Selma Blair has apologised after being arrested on assault charges following an alleged incident on a flight from Los Angeles to New York, saying she was sorry to those she had “disappointed”, “hurt” or “frightened”.
The 54-year-old actor addressed the case publicly for the first time in an Instagram video, despite saying her lawyers had advised her not to discuss it. She said she was taking the matter “very seriously”.
“I know I’ve been quiet for a couple weeks since October 11th, and you deserve to hear from me directly. And I’m sorry that it’s taken this long,” Blair said.
Authorities in New York said Blair allegedly became physically abusive on a Delta Air Lines flight and was removed from the aircraft. Two flight attendants reported injuries, with one taken to hospital.
Blair was charged with two counts of second-degree assault over alleged incidents involving a Port Authority police officer and a nurse. She is accused of kicking the officer while being taken to hospital and later kicking the nurse. She has pleaded not guilty.
In her video, Blair said it was not in her nature to harm others.
“What I can tell you, though, is very simple, and the truest thing I know about myself, and that not one day ever have I intended to hurt or frighten anyone a day in my life,” she said.
Blair thanked people who had contacted her with messages of support, saying their kindness had meant everything to her and her son. She also said her service dog, Scout, was well.
“So right now, I’m going to be taking care of my health and my son, and thinking of you all with gratitude and love,” she said.
Blair disclosed in 2018 that she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. During her October 12 arraignment, her lawyer, Shawn Barnes, said the alleged conduct followed a medical emergency, claiming she had missed several doses of medication and fallen and hit her head during the flight.
Her representative also said Blair had experienced a medical emergency that led to the alleged conduct. The case was adjourned until January 19, according to the District Attorney’s Office.
