Sharon says sorry over Boyle jibe

Sharon Osbourne has apologised to Susan Boyle for suggesting during a radio outburst that she was hit with an "ugly stick".

The former X Factor judge also said Boyle resembled a "hairy a***hole" during a raucous interview in the US, during which she added that someone should give the Scottish singer "a Gillette razor".

In a statement posted on the TV judge's Facebook and Twitter page, the 57-year-old said sorry for trying to get a "cheap laugh" out of Boyle's appearance.

She said: "Susan Boyle is a lovely, gracious woman and I took advantage of that by poking fun at her.

"I would never want to be responsible for hurting Susan and I must apologise for getting a cheap laugh at her expense."

During the interview on Sirius XM's Opie And Anthony show, Sharon was asked if she wished Britain's Got Talent star Boyle all the best with her career.

She replied: "I like everybody to do well, even someone who looks like a slapped a**e." Not holding back on her comments, Osbourne continued: "She does look like a hairy a***hole."

The clip was posted on YouTube, leading to a backlash by Boyle supporters and resulting in Sharon's mea culpa.

Viewers of the YouTube clip commented that Sharon's words were "vile" and "nasty".

Sources close to Boyle said: "Susan is a very dignified lady, I'm sure she will accept the apology."