Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner Apologize for Calling Black Widow a “Slut” in ‘Avengers’ Interview

Following online outcry, Chris Evans and Jeremy Renner have apologized for comments made during a promotional interview for Avengers: Age of Ultron in which they described co-star Scarlett Johansson‘s character as a “slut” and “whore.”

Both actors issued statements Thursday morning via representatives. Evans’ statement reads, “Yesterday we were asked about the rumors that Black Widow wanted to be in a relationship with both Hawkeye and Captain America. We answered in a very juvenile and offensive way that rightfully angered some fans. I regret it and sincerely apologize.”

Renner, meanwhile, specifically mentioned the pressure of the promotional tour in explaining the problematic comments. “I am sorry that this tasteless joke about a fictional character offended anyone,” his statement reads. “It was not meant to be serious in any way. Just poking fun during an exhausting and tedious press tour.”

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The actors’ comments came during an interview with Digital Spy in response to a question about fans’ linking Black Widow romantically with characters including Hawkeye, Captain America and the Hulk (watch the video below.) “She’s a slut,” Renner said, prompting Evans to add, “I was going to say something along that line, she’s a complete whore. … She’ll flirt with everybody, leading everybody on.”