Jay Leno Apologizes Over Gay Remarks

“In talking about Ryan’s first role, I realize that what I said came out wrong,” Leno said. “I certainly didn’t mean any malice. I agree it was a dumb thing to say, and I apologize.”

The Tonight Show host, 57, teased Phillippe, 33, for landing his first role as a gay teen on the soap One Life to Live. He also asked Phillippe to give the camera his “gayest look.”

An uncomfortable Phillippe almost walked off the stage. (See footage below.)

“We are proud of Ryan for refusing to participate in Leno’s thoughtless attempt at humor,” GLAAD President Neil G. Giuliano tells Usmagazine.com in a statement.

“Under the guise of comedy, the talk show host is demonstrating a lack of respect for the gay community and insensitivity to both his co-workers and the audience, to whom he owes an apology.”