Rolling Stone writes that so-called "mea culpa" videos (apology videos) are becoming more and more embarrassing. They're referring to forgiveness posts from celebrities like Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, Colleen Ballinger, and Drew Barrymore.
All of them have in various ways received sharp criticism from what several followers believe are unacceptable behaviors.
"Deeply apologize"
Actor couple Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis posted a video in which they solemnly say sorry for a letter they wrote to the judge at trial for their old "That 70s Show" colleague Danny Masterson, who was convicted of rape. Several said the letter sounded like a defense of Masterson, which the couple denies.
Actor and talk show host Drew Barrymore says in a video that she "deeply apologizes to writers and unions" for initially intending to broadcast her show despite the ongoing film and television strike in Hollywood.
And YouTuber Colleen Ballinger took to the ukulele when she posted a video in which she sings denying allegations that she behaved inappropriately towards underage followers.
"I'm sorry I won't take that route of admitting lies and rumors," she sings.
Hear PR expert Tanja Tabrizian on why she thinks the videos have been criticized in the video.