Angela Simmons apologizes for wearing gun purse to BET Awards: ‘It was a mistake’
Angela Simmons, whose ex-fiancé, Sutton Tennyson, was fatally shot in 2018, apologized for wearing a bedazzled gun-shaped purse to the 2024 BET Awards Sunday.
“I want to address the recent incident involving the green purse I carried at the BET Awards. When I chose the purse, I believed it was cute and unique and I made a poor decision in using it as an accessory to amplify my beauty,” she wrote on her Instagram Stories Monday night.
“I deeply regret that this item, which symbolizes a gun, was inappropriate and insensitive, especially given my personal and community experiences with gun violence,” she continued.
Simmons, 36, said she understands the “pain and hurt” her ensemble has caused people who are “directly impacted by gun violence.”
The “Run’s House” alum, who shares 7-year-old son Sutton Tennyson, Jr., with Tennyson, wrote that though she has lived her life exemplifying “peace, unification, and the resolution of gun violence in America,” she saw firsthand the “devastating impact” of gun violence when Tennyson was killed.
“Gun violence is a disease that has taken too many lives, particularly among young people and Black men. By carrying this purse, I did not intend to promote gun violence in any way. It was a mistake that does not define who I am or my commitment to ending gun violence. To anyone who was hurt or offended by my actions, I offer my deepest apologies.
Simmons said she will continue to dedicate herself to “making peace a reality for millions of children and families across America.”
On Sunday, the mom of one hit the BET Awards red carpet wearing a strapless plunging green gown by Casze Atelier, adorned with green jewels. She completed her look with the bedazzled green gun clutch and a pair of heels.
At one point, the former reality star pointed the faux weapon at the paparazzi as she posed for pictures on the red carpet.
However, Simmons faced criticism for the purse online, with several users calling her out for being “corny” and “cringe.”
“This was in very poor taste,” one person commented while another said, “Glock clutch is insane 😂 i can’t defend this one . Usually i take up for u.”
Tennyson was shot 13 times in his chest, stomach, legs and arms as he stood in his driveway in November 2018.
Michael Williams was arrested and charged with Tennyson’s murder and was sentenced to life in prison in April 2022.
