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Bachelorette finalist Erich Schwer's apology for wearing blackface has divided fans online.
Several images from Schwer's high school yearbook began circulating on Reddit earlier this week.
In the first shot, Schwer wore a black suit and tie with a white shirt in front of a blue background. There also appeared to be a baby photo of his along with the quote: "Yeah, I'll pay you back, I promise."
In the second pic, the real estate analyst appeared in blackface while sporting a colorful shirt and Afro wig.
Following backlash, Schwer released a message via Instagram, noting that he will "forever regret" his actions.
"I wholeheartedly apologize for the insensitive photo of me in Blackface from my high school yearbook that has been circulating," he said on Thursday, September 8.
"What I thought at the time was a representation of my love for Jimi Hendrix, was nothing but ignorance. I was naïve to the hurtful implications of my actions to the Black community and those closest to me, and will forever regret my offensive and damaging behavior. I am deeply ashamed by my actions and understand that my apology is only the first step in taking accountability."
Newsweek reached out to Schwer for additional comment.
Following his message, some fans praised Schwer in the comments section of the post.
"From a person of color, thank you. All it takes, we are human," one person wrote, while another added: "As a POC I accept your apology. Now move on and enjoy your life!"
A third, meanwhile, chimed in: "We all make mistakes—especially slip ups of ignorance in our younger high school years—your actions and words show that of a kind and genuine person!"
On Twitter, however, many still criticized Schwer and withdrew their previous support for the reality star.
"I get Erich apologized for his blackface in high school, but let's be honest, if that photo never resurfaced, he would have never apologized #bachelorette," another user wrote.
"I lied. Not supporting Gabby and Erich," someone else said. "And if she stays with him what [sic] him being exposed for doing blackface. She's in for a rude awakening."
"Upon recent news of Erich doing blackface. I take it back," a separate commenter posted. "I can't support such nonsense."
The New Jersey native is starring on Season 19 of the ABC reality show and is vying for the final rose from Gabby Windey, one of two bachelorettes this season. The registered nurse is sharing the spotlight with pilot and flight instructor Rachel Recchia.
In the recent hometown dates episode, Schwer stood out as a frontrunner.
During a trip to Bedminster, New Jersey, viewers were introduced to Schwer's father, Allan Schwer, who was battling cancer.
Although his dad was able to meet Windey and said he "really liked Gabby," he never got a chance to see the season air. Allan died on July 6, five days before The Bachelorette's season 19's premiere. He was 65.
"Thankful for everything you've done for me," Schwer captioned a photo of his father via Instagram on July 9. "We are gonna miss the hell out of you Big AL. I love you so much dad."
The Bachelorette two-part finale airs on September 13 and September 20 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
About the writer
Megan Cartwright is Newsweek's Deputy Entertainment Editor, based in London, U.K. Her focus is on U.S. pop culture and entertainment ... Read more