Sharon apologises over Boyle 'cheap laugh'

Sharon Osbourne has apologised to Susan Boyle for suggesting during a radio outburst that she was hit with an “ugly stick”.

The former 'X Factor' judge also said Boyle resembled a “hairy a***hole” during a raucous interview in the US during which she added that someone should give the Scottish singer “a Gillette razor”.

The clip was posted on YouTube, leading to a backlash by Boyle supporters and resulting in Osbourne’s mea culpa.

In a statement posted on the TV judge’s Facebook and Twitter page, the 57-year-old said sorry for trying to get a “cheap laugh” out of Boyle’s appearance.

She said: “Susan Boyle is a lovely, gracious woman and I took advantage of that by poking fun at her.

“I would never want to be responsible for hurting Susan and I must apologise for getting a cheap laugh at her expense.”

During the interview on Sirius XM’s 'Opie And Anthony' show, Osbourne was asked if she wished Boyle all the best with her career.

She replied: “I like everybody to do well, even someone who looks like a slapped a**e.”

Not holding back on her comments, Osbourne continued: “She does look like a hairy a***hole.”

Amid laughter in the studio, she added that God had given the singer talent, but “hit her with a f***ing ugly stick.”

Viewers of the YouTube clip commented that Osbourne’s words were “vile” and “nasty”.

Sources close to Boyle said: “Susan is a very dignified lady, I’m sure she will accept the apology.”