'Strong lapse in judgement': Justin Timberlake responds to photos of him cozying up to co-star Alisha Wainwright

Justin Timberlake has released a public statement apologising to his wife Jessica Biel after photos emerged of him cosying up to his co-star. 

Multiple outlets published the photos earlier this month, which showed his Palmer co-star Alisha Wainwright appearing to rest her hand on his thigh. 

Timberlake had reportedly been drinking heavily and was not wearing his wedding ring. 

Until now the 'Senorita' singer has stayed quiet on the incident, but released a statement on Instagram on Thursday in which he says the touching was a "strong lapse in judgement".

"A few weeks ago, I displayed a strong lapse in judgment — but let me be clear — nothing happened between me and my co-star. I drank way too much that night and I regret my behaviour. I should have known better."

"This is not the example I want to set for my son," Timberlake added. "I apologise to my amazing wife and family for putting them through such an embarrassing situation, and I am focused on being the best husband and father I can be."

Timberlake says he is "incredibly proud" to be working on the film, and is excited for people to see it. 

Timberlake, 38, and Biel, 37, married in 2012 in a romantic ceremony in Italy after five years of dating. The pair share one son, Silas, 4.