John Crist admits to 'destructive and sinful' behavior after sexual misconduct allegations

Charisma published an article Wednesday which includes a statement from Crist

ROANOKE, Va. – Popular Christian comedian John Crist has canceled the remainder of his current tour after apologizing for sexual misconduct allegations against him.

Charisma, a Christian news outlet, posted an in-depth article on Wednesday providing details of multiple accounts of sexual misconduct by the comedian.

The article explains how Crist would make contact with women using social media to develop a flirty relationship, and then initiate, or try to initiate sexting and other sexual activities.

Crist provided the following statement to Charisma:

"Over the past number of years, various women have accused me of behavior that has been hurtful to them. While I am not guilty of everything I've been accused of, I confess to being guilty of this—I have treated relationships with women far too casually, in some cases even recklessly. My behavior has been destructive and sinful. I've sinned against God, against women and the people who I love the most. I have violated my own Christian beliefs, convictions and values, and have hurt many people in the process. I am sorry for the hurt and pain I have caused these women and will continue to seek their forgiveness. I have also hurt the name of Jesus and have sought His forgiveness.

Over several recent years, I have privately sought and received regular professional treatment for my sexual sin and addiction struggles. I'm committed to getting healing and freedom from my sin and have decided to cancel my remaining tour dates this year and to postpone all future commitments in order to devote all my time and energy on getting healthy spiritually, mentally and physically.

Those closest to me—my family, team and close friends—have known about this battle for some time, and now you do too. I'm ashamed of my behavior and I'm so sorry for hurting so many people. I don't blame anyone but myself. I'm responsible for my actions and I've repented and am taking full ownership. I realize it will be difficult for some people to ever forgive me, and I accept that as a result of my bad decisions and actions.

My entire career has been lived out on stage, and even though I've shared many of my life struggles with my audiences, I've lived in constant fear of the darkest parts of my life being exposed publicly. My greatest fear has been that those who have loved and supported me would hate me if they knew everything about me. I now humbly seek forgiveness and mercy and love—not just for me, but for those I've hurt along my path. I'm so sorry."

Crist's tour stopped at Liberty University on Friday, Nov. 1.

A Netflix spokesperson said Crist's special "I Ain't Prayin' For That," is on hold, according to the Associated Press.

In its report, Charisma broke down the three main reasons it felt it was newsworthy to publish this story:

  • Charisma felt pastors and leaders who book Crist at their events need to know who it is they're signing
  • Charisma felt that leaders who make Christianity part of their public persona -- whether or not they are formally in ministry -- should be held to a higher standard.
  • Charisma felt that the Body of Christ must police itself and has an obligation to protect the innocent and vulnerable