A tearful Janet Jackson has spoken out following Justin Timberlake's grovelling apology
For the first time, the Cry Me A River singer acknowledged his "male privilege" as he said sorry for his behaviour around the 2004 Super Bowel controversy.
Following his apology, Jackson's album Control shot back to number one in the charts.
In an emotional video which the 54-year-old singer shared with her 5.4 million followers on Instagram, Jackson thanked her fans for their support while wearing a hat, face mask, and a large pair of sunglasses.
In the video, she said:
"I was at home just the other day by myself and I began to cry. I was crying because I was so thankful for all that God has blessed me with. All that he has given me. For Him being in my life.
"And I am so thankful for all of you being in my life. You're so special to me."
She also thanked her fans for reigniting interest in her 1986 album Control, stating:
"I want to thank all of you for making Control number one once again after 35 years.
"I never in a million years... I would never think that this would happen. I really appreciate you and I love you so, so much. Thank you."
Timberlake's past professional and private behavior has come under heavy scrutiny following the recent release of the New York Times' shocking exposé documentary Framing Britney.
People on social media have called him out for how he behaved in the aftermath of his split from Britney Spear – as well as his response to Jackson's wardrobe malfunction at the Super Bowel.
Timberlake himself addressed the controversy in a lengthy and contrite statement shared on Instagram, in which he specifically made mention of Spears and Jackson.
Writing to his 57.9 million followers, Timberlake stated:
"I've seen the messages, tags, comments, and concerns and I want to respond. I am deeply sorry for the times in my life where my actions contributed to the problem, where I spoke out of turn, or did not speak up for what was right.
"I understand that I fell short in these moments and in many others and benefited from a system that condones misogyny and racism.
"I specifically want to apologize to Britney Spears and Janet Jackson both individually, because I care for and respect these women and I know I failed."
Timberlake continued: "The industry is flawed. It sets men, especially white men, up for success. It's designed this way. As a man in a privileged position, I have to be vocal about this.
"Because of my ignorance, I didn't recognize it for all that it was while it was happening in my own life but I do not want to ever benefit from others being pulled down again.
"I have not been perfect in navigating all of this throughout my career. I know this apology is a first step and doesn't absolve the past. I want to take accountability for my own missteps in all of this as well as be part of a world that uplifts and supports.
"I care deeply about the well-being of the people I love and have loved. I can do better and will do better."