‘Creation’ star Jennifer Connelly made Astral Media’s president of television networks look like rather a heel on Friday morning.

The actress was brought to tears at a ‘Creation’ press conference while explaining why she and her costar and husband Paul Bettany did not stay longer at the film’s TIFF opening night gala on Thursday. After the couple’s departure, Astral Media’s John Riley held a photo of Connelly up in front of party guests and ripped it in two, saying, “This is my former favourite actress.”

Connelly addressed the issue at the conference, according to Sun Media. She said, “I had to leave early because yesterday was the first anniversary of my father’s death.

“And I’m very sorry. I would have loved to have stayed longer but was not able to. So please accept my apology.”

Riley released a statement claiming the comments were a joke. “My remarks and actions were completely in jest,” he said, “and were an attempt to bring humour to an awkward situation where our guests were anticipating [the] imminent arrival [of Connelly and Bettany.]‘ I was in no way serious when I made the comments and the ripping of the picture was for effect. I sincerely regret if Ms. Connelly was saddened by my actions as I certainly didn’t wish to detract from the premiere of her film at the festival. Clearly, I was unaware of Ms. Connelly’s personal situation and, having lost my own father four months ago, I have great empathy for how difficult an anniversary such as this can be. I continue to be a tremendous fan of hers and hope that she will take my words and actions in the light-hearted spirit in which they were intended and not give this matter another minute of consideration.

The Sun says the pair did actually make a brief appearance at the party and do the press line before leaving.

(Photo by PR Photos)