GAME OF THRONES actor Jason Momoa has apologised for joking about “raping beautiful women” on the show after a resurfaced video sparked outrage online.
The 38-year-old - who played Khal Drogo in the HBO fantasy epic - was speaking at the San Diego Comic Con in 2011 when he made the insensitive remark.
As he spoke about the fantasy genre, he said: “But as far as sci-fi and fantasy, I love that genre because there are so many things you can do, like rip someone’s tongue out of their throat and get away with it and rape beautiful women.”
The audience erupted into laughter at his comment while his co-stars on the panel appeared to look around awkwardly.
Emilia Clarke (plays Daenerys Targaryen), Kit Harington (Jon Snow) and Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister) were seen holding their heads in their hands.
ason then called out “next question” as he wrapped his jacket around his head.
The Hawaiian-born star has now issued an apology in a statement on Instagram, which read: “I awoke in Australia to the justified reactions by many people to a distasteful joke I made years ago in Hall H for which I am sorry. I am still severely disappointed in myself at the insensitivity of my remarks to that day.
“I know my sincerest apology now won't take away those hurtful words. Rape and sexual harassment can reach anyone and I have seen first hand its painful torment among members of my own family and friends.
“I made a truly tasteless comment. It is unacceptable and I sincerely apologise with a heavy heart for the words I said. All apologies, Jason.”
After the video resurfaced on Twitter, social media users expressed their outrage as one person wrote: “Tonight I saw a disgusting clip of Jason Momoa making a rape joke and I am absolutely repulsed.”
Another commented: “The audience laughing at this joke is rape culture. Jason Momoa is disgusting.”
A third added: “OK this ’joke’ is sickening. Damn you Jason Momoa thought you'd be one of the good guys.”
“Oh Jason Momoa, we were all rooting for you, and then you go and make a f****g rape joke,” said a fan of the actor.
Game of Thrones has been constantly criticised for its portrayal of rape throughout the series.
In the first episode of season one, viewers were shocked when Dothraki warrior Khal raped Daenerys Targaryen on their wedding night to consummate their marriage.
Express.co.uk has contacted Jason Momoa’s representative for comment.