Hugh Laurie has issued an apology following a social media incident where his response to a journalist's critique of his show 'House' led to the journalist receiving significant online backlash.

The actor admitted he was "very slightly drunk" when he posted the initial tweet.

The controversy began when journalist Janet Murray posted on X/Twitter, suggesting that episodes of 'House' followed a predictable formula.

Laurie, known for his role as Dr.

Gregory House, responded with a now-deleted tweet that humorously defended the show's structure, comparing it to classical music compositions.

This exchange, however, resulted in Murray facing what she described as "fairly horrific trolling" from Laurie's followers.

Laurie's subsequent apology addressed the negative consequences for Murray.

He clarified that the intent of his original tweet was not to incite such a reaction, stating, "I'm sorry if people have been having a go at you because of my tweet.

Not at all the plan." He also revealed that he was already upset about an unrelated issue at the time of his initial post.

This development matters to the audience because it highlights the potential for celebrity social media interactions to inadvertently trigger online harassment.

Murray has since acknowledged Laurie's apology, noting that while "'Having a go' is probably an understatement," she appreciates the sentiment and recognizes his intention to defend his colleagues.

Laurie also reflected on his choice of artistic comparisons, suggesting he should have cited blues music rather than Bach, Kahlo, or Moore, acknowledging that such references might have been "asking for trouble."

This incident underscores the complexities of online interactions, particularly when public figures engage with critics, and the unintended consequences that can arise.