Justin Timberlake is still not getting fans on his side despite taking responsibility for his actions. Four months after his DWI arrest in Sag Harbour, the singer entered his plea for his charges. On Friday, Timberlake showed up in court to plead guilty to a lesser charge of Driving While Ability Impaired.
The Mirrors artist, during his court appearance, admitted to consuming alcohol before his arrest and driving impaired. Recall that Timberlake was initially charged with one count of DWI, but his legal team was able to beat it down to a smaller traffic offense. Following his plea, a judge sentenced him to 25-40 hours of community service and a fine of $500, per TMZ. In addition, Timberlake agreed to make a public service announcement denouncing driving while impaired.
He wasted no time ticking off one of his penalties with a press conference immediately after his court appearance. Dressed in a navy blue sweater and brown-gray slacks, a somber Timberlake explained that he has always held himself to a “very high standard.” However, his arrest was a deviation from his standards.
“I found myself in a position where I could have made a different decision. But I’ve had sometime to reflect on that.”
The In Time actor urged his fans and those listening, “Even if you’ve had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a car. There’s so many alternatives [sic].”
Fans Slam Justin Timberlake’s ‘Cringe’ Apology
The 43-year-old’s guilt wasn’t enough to make fans forgive him. Many took to social media to blast him for turning his crime into a media moment. “Why are they holding a press conference over Justin Timberlake’s DWI plea deal?! I’m crying! 😭😭. Bro, just do a People Magazine interview like everyone else,” one fan mocked. Another replied, “Beyond cringy right now, even Fox News is covering it live.” A third remark read:
“This is just another example of how rich and famous people are treated differently. He has a team of high powered attorneys represent him for a DWI. This is why I have little to no respect for people like Timberlake.”
Some select fans, however, praised Timberlake for not using his celebrity status to sweep the entire case away. “Respect that he took responsibility! At least he knows he did wrong…most celebs refuse to admit that,” one fan argued.
