Rita Ora has issued an apology after throwing a 30-person party during London’ s strict coronavirus lockdown.
Ahh, another day, another celebrity breaking COVID-safe practices. Shocking, I know.
The UK pop star offered to pay an $18,000 fine after the police arrived at her 30th birthday, according to the Daily Mail.
“Hello all, I attended a small gathering with some friends to celebrate my 30th birthday. It was a spur of the moment decision made with the misguided view that we were coming out of lockdown and this would be OK … I’m deeply sorry for breaking the rules and in turn understand that this puts people at risk,” she said on Instagram on Wednesday.
“This was a serious and inexcusable error of judgment. Given the restrictions, I realise how irresponsible these actions were and I take full responsibility.”
Despite the lockdown, thirty people attended the secret party, which was held at a West London restaurant on Saturday. Guests reportedly included supermodel Cara Delevingne and her sister Poppy, among others.
“I feel particularly embarrassed knowing first-hand how hard people have worked to combat this terrible illness and being fully aware of the sacrifices that people and businesses have made to help keep us all safe. Even though this won’t make it right, I want to sincerely apologise.”
The news comes as the UK has recorded more than 1.6 million cases, including 58,000 deaths, prompting many to call Ora out for her irresponsible behaviour. A nationwide lockdown was imposed by the British government, preventing social gatherings from November 5 until December 2.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s spokesman Jamie Davies said it is “important that everybody in society sets an example by following the rules. That is for every member of the public, including celebrities.”
