Henry Cavill apologises for controversial comments comparing flirting with women to being labelled a 'rapist'

Henry Cavill has apologised for his recent interview with GQ magazine, where he said he stopped openly flirting with women because of the #MeToo movement.

In the interview, the Mission: Impossible – Fallout actor admitted it was "very difficult" to flirt in the current climate of Hollywood because he feared being "called a rapist." Now recognising he took his flirting and rape comparison too far, Cavill said he never intended to make light of the situation.

"Having seen the reaction to an article in particular about my feelings on dating and the #MeToo movement, I just wanted to apologise for any confusion and misunderstanding that this may have created," he told Page Six in a statement on Thursday.

"Insensitivity was absolutely not my intention. In light of this, I would just like to clarify and confirm to all that I have always and will continue to hold women in the highest of regard, no matter the type of relationship, whether it be friendship, professional, or a significant other."

In the statement, Cavill -- who copped a lot of backlash online for his comments -- explained that he has and always will continue to support women, and that he has championed the #MeToo movement since the beginning.

"Never would I intend to disrespect in any way, shape or form," his statement continued. "This experience has taught me a valuable lesson as to the context and the nuance of editorial liberties. I look forward to clarifying my position in the future towards a subject that is so vitally important and in which I wholeheartedly support."