LOS ANGELES — R&B star Chris Brown has withdrawn his name from the ballot for the upcoming Kids' Choice Awards.
The 19-year-old singer released a statement Wednesday thanking his fans for nominating him for the March 28 awards show on Nickelodeon. However, Brown said the controversy surrounding his Feb. 8 arrest for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend Rihanna made this the right decision.
"Chris very much appreciates the support of his fans and the honor they have paid him in the way of nominations for Favorite Male Singer and Favorite Song," read the statement, according to People. "Unfortunately, the controversy surrounding the incident last month has shifted the focus from the music to whether he should be allowed to be among those nominated. While Chris would like to speak to his fans directly about this and other issues, pending legal proceedings preclude his doing so at this time. Once the matter before him has been resolved, he intends to do so."
An online petition has been circulating to take Brown's name off the ballot, but Nickelodeon said yesterday that the singer would not be removed.
Following Brown's withdrawal, Nickelodeon said it would "respect" his decision.
"We agree with and respect his decision, and are looking forward to presenting a great event for our audience," the network said.
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