Kim Zolciak-Biermann Apologizes for Racism Remarks During ‘RHOA’ Reunion

Kim Zolciak-Biermann caught hell during part three of the Real Housewives of Atlanta reunion Sunday night, with NeNe Leakes, Kenya Moore, Kandi Burruss and even Cynthia Bailey all calling out the mother of six for the various shade she threw behind their backs all season.

Following their shouting match, Zolciak broke down in the restroom with host Andy Cohen, where she said racism “wasn’t all that real” before social media.

She was immediately hit with backlash for the comment, but is now apologizing for the controversial remark while explaining that the quotes were taken out of context.

“During the last RHOA reunion episode, I made a comment that confused and offended people. I sincerely apologize,” Zolciak said in a statement. “Edited out of context, I understand why my remark angered people. Racism is a sad reality in the United States. It has been prevalent throughout our country’s history. Let me be very clear, I do NOT support, tolerate or put up with any form of racism, hate or other discrimination.”

She went on to say she feels social media has made a “centuries-old issue more real.”

“When false accusations are made, they are amplified by online platforms regardless of their merit. This wasn’t the case 10 years ago when I started on RHOA.”

Read her full apology below.

During the last RHOA Reunion episode, I made a comment that confused and offended people. I sincerely apologize. Edited out of context, I understand why my remark angered people. Racism is a sad reality in the United States. It has been prevalent throughout our country’s history. Let me be very clear, I do NOT support, tolerate or put up with any form of racism, hate or other discrimination. My love for ALL people runs deep – I am open to all and always have been. I was heartbroken when I watched the last few minutes of the episode and saw how my words were taken out of context. My comment that seemingly “racism didn’t exist 10 years ago” was made as part of a larger, emotional 45-minute conversation about how, sadly, social media has become a hub for hate. Immediately following my confusing comment, I also said that “it’s not as real as it is now” referring to the power of social media. But those remarks didn’t make the show. I believe that social media has made a centuries-old issue more real. Before social media, the public simply observed the news. Now, the public actively participates and has an opportunity to take action – in real time. But this is a double edged sword. Now, when false accusations are made, they are amplified by online platforms regardless of their merit. This wasn’t the case 10 years ago when I started on RHOA. I truly pray that the people wishing horrible things on others, and on me, channel that energy into something positive. Our world would be a much better place if you do. I am committed to making this world a better place to live. I will continue to learn from, and be open to, ALL people.

A post shared by Kim Zolciak-Biermann (@kimzolciakbiermann) on Apr 26, 2018 at 4:25am PDT