YouTube star Logan Paul began New Year’s Day with a controversial new video. He closed it with an apology.<\/p>\n
The new video found the popular YouTuber in Japan’s Aokigahara, which is known as “suicide forest” due to its high incidence of suicide.<\/p>\n
During the visit, Logan stumbled upon — and filmed — a man who had committed suicide by hanging.<\/p>\n
The video predictably ignited a firestorm of criticism, with many labeling it insensitive and disrespectful to those affected by suicide.<\/p>\n
It was ultimately removed; Logan also issued an apology late Monday night. Saying he was “misguided by shock and awe,” Logan explained his initial hope that the video would spread awareness about suicide — and potentially save lives. He vowed not to misuse his power and reach in the future.<\/p>\n
The apology did not, however, bring an end to the criticism. Many individuals — including actress Sophie Turner and actor Aaron Paul (no relation) — issued condemnatory Tweets after Logan had posted the apology.<\/p>\n
“How dare you,” wrote Aaron Paul. “You disgust me. I can’t believe that so many young people look up to you. So sad. Hopefully this latest video woke them up. You are pure trash. Plain and simple. Suicide is not a joke. Go rot in hell.”<\/p>\n
Replying directly to Logan’s apology, Turner wrote, “You\u2019re an idiot. You\u2019re not raising awareness. You\u2019re mocking. I can\u2019t believe how self-praising your ‘apology’ is. You don\u2019t deserve the success (views) you have. I pray to God you never have to experience anything like that man did.”<\/p>\n
Turner also re-Tweeted a list of support lines for suicide and mental illness.<\/p>\n
\nDear Internet, pic.twitter.com\/42OCDBhiWg<\/a><\/p>\n
— Logan Paul (@LoganPaul) January 2, 2018<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n