Charlotte Rampling Oscars row: 'Racist to whites' comment has been misinterpreted, actor claims

An Oscar-nominated British actress who claimed a diversity row was “racist to white people” has said her comments have been “misinterpreted”.

Charlotte Rampling, 69, who is nominated in the best actress category, had said that the uproar over there being no black actors on the Oscars shortlist was unfair to the white actors who were nominated.

"We can never know if it was really the case, but perhaps the black actors did not deserve to be in the final straight," she told French radio station Europe 1, before adding: "It's racist to white people."

Rampling, who is shortlisted for her role in 45 Years, is up against Kate Winslet, Jennifer Lawrence, Cate Blanchett and Brie Larson.

In a statement to CBS News's Sunday Morning, she was reported as having said: "I regret that my comments could have been misinterpreted this week in my interview with Europe 1 Radio.

"I simply meant to say that in an ideal world every performance will be given equal opportunities for consideration. I am very honoured to be included in this year's wonderful group of nominated actors and actresses."

She continued: "Diversity in our industry is an important issue that needs to be addressed. I am highly encouraged by the changes announced today by the Academy to diversify its membership."

On Friday, the Academy pledged to double the number of female and minority members by 2020.

Academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs said: "The Academy is going to lead and not wait for the industry to catch up."