{
  "id": 17769586,
  "title": "#SHOWBIZ: Zahirah MacWilson apologises over remarks on Halloween and other celebrations",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/02/showbiz-zahirah-macwilson-apologises-over-remarks-on-halloween-and",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-02T08:00:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2026/11/1569076/showbiz-zahirah-macwilson-apologises-over-remarks-halloween-and"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR: Actress Zahirah MacWilson has issued an apology following social media remarks regarding Halloween and other holidays that prompted criticism. The 31-year-old star, whose full name is Nur Zahirah MacWilson Zainol MacWilson, clarified that she did not intend to offend or disrespect anyone's beliefs. Zahirah deleted the original post shortly after posting it to prevent further misunderstanding. In an Instagram statement, she expressed regret for any offense caused and stated that she removed the content soon after to avoid additional confusion.\n\nThe actress, known for her role in \"The Good Boys Go to Heaven,\" further explained that her initial comments were a result of personal inquiries she had while attempting to comprehend various celebrations. She noted a discrepancy between her readings and what she observed in day-to-day life. Zahirah's post aimed to share her questions, not to target anyone, but rather to express her ongoing quest for understanding.\n\nEarlier, Zahirah had mentioned her difficulty in grasping holidays such as Halloween, Christmas, and Easter, even after residing abroad for 20 years. She questioned traditions like children dressing up, trick-or-treating, and sitting on Santa's lap, as well as events focused on spooky or death-related themes. Her remarks drew backlash from some social media users who felt the post was insensitive towards other religions. In response, Zahirah emphasized that her intention was never to cause hurt, stating that Islam teaches her to be fair, kind, and just towards others without insulting anyone.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Actress Zahirah MacWilson has apologised after her social media comments about Halloween and other holidays sparked criticism.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}