During his year-end wrap-up, Kirk Franklin issued an apology following criticism of his actions during Jamaica’s “Fun in the Son” concert and moments from his Reunion Tour.
In a candid YouTube video, Franklin acknowledged his missteps that upset some of the Christian community in 2024.
At the “Fun in the Son” concert, an event celebrating Christian values, Franklin performed wearing a tank top and shorts, attire that some deemed inappropriate for the occasion. Franklin admitted he had underestimated how his clothing choices might be perceived.
“I am aware now that my choice of attire… was going to be something that would not come across as disrespectful,” he said. “I sincerely apologize because I never want to get to a place that I can’t learn…that I’m always being humble enough and submissive enough to hear people and their concerns about anything being bigger than the message of Jesus,” Franklin added.
Kirk Franklin apologizes for his outfit during a 2024 performance in Jamaica and admits he was doing too much when he was caught twerking on stage that same year.
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) January 3, 2025
(🎥 Kirk Franklin/YouTube) pic.twitter.com/EfiLC687Fg
Franklin also addressed a viral video from his Reunion Tour, where he playfully danced on a fellow singer on stage.
“I play too much,” Franklin confessed. “I’ve got to learn because I know that it can be offensive to some people.”
Another incident involved Franklin encouraging gospel legend Marvin Sapp to join him in dancing on stage. Franklin took full responsibility, admitting, “It was my fault. I pushed him to dance, and he easily obliged.”
Despite the criticism, Franklin defended his overall vision for gospel performances, striving to make them both spiritually uplifting and entertaining.
“I’ve always believed that God’s music… should always be able to stand in any space that you spend your money,” he explained. “I want you to feel like you had a good time, that it was a show that did not compromise the Gospel.”
Check out Franklin’s full wrap-up.
