Heroes creator Tim Kirng has released a letter in which he apologises for calling fans of the show dip***ts in a recent speech.

Speaking at the Screenwriting Expo Tim Kring explained away falling viewing figures in America by blaming people recording the show to watch at a later date or viewing it online. He said:

“It’s a very flawed way of telling stories on network television right now because of the advent of the DVR and online streaming. So [watching it] on air is related to the saps and the dips***s who can’t figure out how to watch it in a superior way.”

Kring has now apologised for the comments, and NBC bosses have confirmed that a letter circulating in Hollywood is genuine.

He wrote: “I need to strongly apologise for the slightly mangled quote of mine that is making it’s way around the internet. It was made while trying to explain the rise in DVR and online audience for the show.

“I was making the point that these platforms now offer a superior way to watch the show (without commercials, with extra content, commentary, at the audience’s convenience, etc.)…

“It was a boneheaded attempt at being ‘cute’ and making a point. Instead, it turned out to be just plain insulting and stupid.”