Rihanna's former publicist publicly apologizes for spreading 2005 rumor that Jay Z was cheating on Beyoncé with rihanna, say 'it's not true'

Rihanna’s former publicist has apologized for making up a rumor that the singer was having an affair with Jay Z. he claimed he made up the cheating rumor In hopes of giving Rihanna fame and debut single Pon De Replay a boost in 2005.  Read his statement after the cut...

He was forced to issue a public apology this week after an explosive new book claimed that due to Hay's rumor Beyoncé and Jay Z, who started dating in 2000, had separated for a year.

He said:

‘I apologized to her ... this whole thing is very awkward,’

‘I was blindsided by the news of Becoming Beyoncé coming out and it couldn't come at a worse time for me,’

'I'm currently releasing projects with my label Urban Hitchcock through Tidal, a company that is owned by Jay Z and Beyoncé... Hopefully this news hasn't ruined that relationship for me,’

‘The pr stunt that I did was out of desperation to help break Pon de Replay,' he said in his statement. ‘It was reckless and I didn't think it was going to work. I was just throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what would stick.’

‘I didn't think it would be this big story,’ ‘But now, seeing Beyoncé on the cover of this book and knowing that people are profiting from speculations and opinions about her really turns my stomach.

‘I'm ashamed that I'm even talking about this. I just want to put this rumor to rest once and for all.’