Mario Batali's Sexual Misconduct Apology Came With a Cinnamon Roll Recipe
Celebrity chef Mario Batali, who was accused of sexual misconduct by four women on Monday, served up an apology for his actions with a side of cinnamon rolls.
Batali began his email newsletter with an apology for his “past behavior.”
“As many of you know, this week there has been some news coverage about some of my past behavior. I have made many mistakes and I am so very sorry that I have disappointed my friends, my family, my fans and my team. My behavior was wrong and there are no excuses. I take full responsibility,” he wrote. “Sharing the joys of Italian food, tradition and hospitality with all of you, each week, is an honor and privilege. Without the support of all of you—my fans—I would never have a forum in which to expound on this. I will work every day to regain your respect and trust.”
The reaction to the addition on Twitter was both swift and negative.
Hi guys, it’s 2017 and Mario Batali just apologized for sexual harassment AND gave a recipe for Pizza Dough Cinnamon Rolls all in one email. pic.twitter.com/88VuVB8a4H
— Jules (@jules_su) December 16, 2017
MARIO BATALI: How do we address the sexual harassment?
PR TEAM: With a heartfelt apology.
MB: A cinnamon roll recipe should do the trick.
PR: That's a horrible idea.
MB: Yeah, let's go with that.
PR: You need to apologize.
MB: OK. Quick apology and then rolls.
PR: We're doomed. pic.twitter.com/dy7aIHUyDV— Josh Jordan (@NumbersMuncher) December 16, 2017
You know how serious Mario Batali is about apologizing for his past sexual misconduct? He included a recipe in his public statement. You can't Martha Stewart your way out of this one, champ. pic.twitter.com/0O1NHaQBIh
— Stretch Armstrong (@StretchArmy) December 16, 2017
Batali stepped away from his restaurant empire following the allegations. Eataly, the Italian market chain Batali co-owns, has also distanced itself from the celebrity chef.