Justin Timberlake apologises for 'lapse in judgement' after being pictured holding hands with co-star

Justin Timberlake has apologised to his wife Jessica Biel for a “strong lapse in judgement” after he was photographed holding hands with his co-star.

The SexyBack singer was spotted hand in hand with his Palmer co-star Alisha Wainwright during a night out in New Orleans last month. At one point, the actress was pictured resting her hand on the star’s leg.

However, Timberlake has now taken to social media to set the record straight – saying he was sorry about embarrassing his “amazing wife” Biel but insisting that nothing went on between him and Wainwright.

Read more: Justin Timberlake back on set after holding hands with co-star

Timberlake, 38, wrote: “I stay away from gossip as much as I can, but for my family, I feel it is important to address recent rumors that are hurting the people I love.

“A few weeks ago I displayed a strong lapse in judgement — but let me be clear — nothing happened between me and my costar.

“I drank way too much that night and I regret my behavior. I should have known better.”

“This is not the example I want to set for my son,” Timberlake added.

“I apologize to my amazing wife and family for putting them through such an embarrassing situation, and I am focused on being the best husband and father I can be.

“This was not that.”

He continued: “I am incredibly proud to be working on Palmer.

“Looking forward to continuing to make this movie and excited for people to see it.”

Timberlake and Biel tied the knot in 2012 and they have a four-year-old son, Silas, together.

Read more: Jessica Biel spotted for first time since hand-holding incident

The actress, 37, has not commented since the photos of her husband and 30-year-old Wainwright were published in The Sun.