James Patterson apologizes for saying white, male writers are facing 'racism'

Author James Patterson has walked back his controversial remark that white, male writers are facing "another form of racism" in today's writing and entertainment landscape.

In a Tuesday post to Facebook, Patterson apologized "for saying white male writers having trouble finding work is a form of racism. I absolutely do not believe that racism is practiced against white writers. Please know that I strongly support a diversity of voices being heard – in literature, in Hollywood, everywhere."

During his decades-long career as a writer, Patterson has sold upwards of 450 million books and has an estimated net worth of $800 million, making him the richest author in the United States. 

During a recent interview with the Sunday Times, Patterson lamented how difficult he believes it is for white men at the beginning of their careers in writing to get jobs in the publishing, television, and theatre worlds. And even harder, he added, for older men. 

"Can you get a job? Yes. Is it harder? Yes. It’s even harder for older writers. You don’t meet many 52-year-old white males," said the 75-year-old, who is currently promoting his autobiography, "James Patterson by James Patterson: The Stories of My Life."

Most of the comments currently populating Patterson's Facebook post encourage the author not to back away from his position because of a negative reaction from the cultural left. 

"You should not have apologised for this remark," one commenter wrote. You are entitled to express your opinion. Some people are just looking for something to be outraged about."

Another posted: "It's bs that you even have to apologize! Too many people today looking for stuff to be offended by."