Dean Lewis has spoken out following mounting criticism, issuing an apology for what he described as “stupid, insensitive, and embarrassing” behavior throughout his career.
In a statement released Thursday, October 30, the Australian singer-songwriter admitted to conduct that has left people “genuinely hurt,” according to Rolling Stone.
“I understand why people are angry and disappointed after learning embarrassing details of intimate, private conversations and relationships I’ve had with consenting adults over the past decade,” Lewis wrote. “But I want to emphasize that none of this is illegal.”
Lewis, who rose to international fame with hits like “Waves” and “Be Alright,” said he was “mortified” when looking back at his past behavior, which included flirtatious exchanges with women online and in person. “Like anyone who has ever dated, been in a relationship, or just sent dumb flirty texts (and yes, sometimes sexts), I’ve done and said incredibly stupid, insensitive, and embarrassing things,” he added.
Calling the situation an “overdue wake-up call,” Lewis said he doesn’t want anyone defending him. “From the bottom of my heart, I want to sincerely apologize to those I’ve hurt.”
He also laid out plans for change, noting that he intends to undergo “intense therapy” to improve how he approaches dating and relationships, and to create “a whole new set of rules” for how he engages with fans. “I know it’s too much to ask for grace and forgiveness at this moment,” he wrote, “but in time I hope to re-earn the trust of those I’ve hurt, and do better by those I’ve disappointed.”
The apology follows a series of viral allegations that surfaced on TikTok in recent weeks. Several women have shared accounts of interactions with Lewis that allegedly occurred over the past decade. These included screenshots, recordings, and posts describing sexually charged messages, flirting, and meet-up requests from the singer.
While Lewis emphasized that the individuals involved were “consenting adults” and that nothing “illegal” occurred, he acknowledged that his actions left a negative impact. “I was breathtakingly dumb texting and flirting in the manner I have over many years,” he said. “I should have been more sensitive that not everyone might look at our interactions the way I often did.”
Lewis ended his statement by saying he plans to step back and “get my head and life in order” before moving forward.
