mily Blunt has apologised for her “off-hand” joke about acquiring US citizenship.

The British-born actress, who is married to American actor John Krasinski, was sworn in as an American citizen last month and now holds dual citizenship. During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter last week, she joked that a recent debate between prospective Republican Presidential candidates had made her question her decision to become a naturalised American, saying: “We watched the Republican debate and I thought, ‘This was a terrible mistake. What have I done?’”

Blunt’s comments caused controversy in some quarters, with a Fox News presenter advising the actress to “leave Hollywood, and let some American women take on the roles that you’re getting, because Americans are watching your movies and lining your pockets”.

During an appearance on US morning show Today yesterday, Blunt insisted that her comments were not meant maliciously, saying: “It was so not the intention to hurt anybody or cause any offence, so I really apologise to those that I caused offence.”

“It was just an off-hand joke. I think I’ll probably leave the political jokes to [US chat show] Late Night or something,” she added.

Blunt’s next film, crime thriller Sicario, opens in the US today and in UK cinemas on October 8. Watch the trailer below.