Louis Theroux clarifies controversial XXXTentacion comment: 'I don't believe compassion should be reserved only for the righteous'

Documentary filmmaker was called out for appearing to underplay serious allegations of domestic violence and homophobia against the late rapper

Louis Theroux has attempted to clarify his comments about the late rapper XXXTentacion after he received criticism for referring to his "personal demons".

The documentary filmmaker tweeted after news that the rapper - born Jahseh Onfroy - had died aged 20, commenting: "Notwithstanding personal demons, he was a huge talent & bringing a beautiful new feel to hip hop."

Many of Theroux's followers called him out for appearing to play down XXXTentacion's controversial history which included serious allegations of domestic violence, and an incident where he claimed to have come close to killing his gay cellmate for looking at him.

One Twitter use responded: "I know that you strive to reveal the humanity of people who exist upon the fringes of decency, but to simplify accusations of domestic abuse and torture as 'personal demons' is profoundly and deeply disappointing."

"So disappointed in you," another wrote. "By personal demons do you mean abusing women and violent homophobia?"

Another commented: "Your simplification of aggravated battery of a pregnant woman into 'personal demons' is somewhat uncomfortable. I know your career is founded on speaking to people involved in some of the most controversial communities, but you definitely could have handled this a lot better."

"My tweet about XXXTentacion was meant to acknowledge the sadness of the death of a 20yo," Theroux later tweeted in response to the criticism. "I don't believe compassion sd [sic] be reserved only for the righteous. But I hear all those who felt my comment did a disservice to victims of domestic violence."

XXXTentacion was shot and killed in an apparent attempted robbery in Fort Lauderdale last week. He was leaving the carpark of a motorbike dealership in his luxury BMW electric car when he was attacked.

A 22-year-old suspect, Dedrick D Williams, was later arrested and charged with murder.

A memorial service for the rapper is set to take place on Wednesday 27 June in Florida at a 20,000-seat arena.

The public memorial was advertised via XXXTentacion's official Instagram page and will feature an open casket viewing. It is currently unclear as to whether those wishing to attend will be charged for entry.

Fans have been warned that mobile phones and cameras will not be allowed at the event.

XXXTentacion's mother recently revealed that her son was expected a child with his girlfriend, who has not been identified: "He left us a final gift," she wrote on Instagram, with a picture of the ultrasound.