Liam Payne has defended his support of a homophobic reality star.
The 20-year-old One Direction singer sparked controversy when he tweeted a message to the star of America's Duck Dynasty, Willie Robertson, on Saturday.
In his message, Liam said he appreciated the "family values" of patriarch Phil Robertson, who was briefly suspended from the show after making homophobic comments to America's GQ magazine.
"Huge love to you/your family huge respect for your business prosperities and the family values you still all behold. big fan," Liam wrote (sic).
The message came weeks after Phil provoked outrage from gay rights activists after his divisive comments to GQ.
"Neither the adulterers, the idolaters, the male prostitutes, the homosexual offenders, the greedy, the drunkards, the slanderers, the swindlers - they won't inherit the kingdom of God. Don't deceive yourself. It's not right," he said in part.
While Phil has since been welcomed back to the A&E series, critics were swift to slam Liam for appearing to make a show of support.
However, the singer posted another message shortly thereafter insisting his comment was misconstrued.
"Being a fan of someones show and the way they still hold a family together doesnt mean i am ok with all they say," he tweeted (sic).
The singer's remarks follow just days after he apologised for posting an image of himself balancing on the ledge of a 34-story building in London.
"You may have seen a photo of me today, taken on top of a building. I regret being there and having a photo taken of me," he tweeted Tuesday.
"I do not endorse any fans trying to repeat this as it is extremely dangerous. It was a stupid and irresponsible thing to do. I am sorry."
