Singer apologizes after Big Fresno Fair encounter sparks backlash

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A popular R&B singer has apologized after he was videotaped cursing at a local videographer during his performance at the Big Fresno Fair.

According to the now viral video, Mario yelled at Ryan Hudgins after he got up on stage to capture the concert.

In the video, Mario can be heard saying, “Yo, you gotta get the [expletive] off the stage. Get the [expletive] off the stage [expletive].”

After receiving backlash online, Mario posted a story to his Instagram explaining the behavior.

“Multiple times while seeing the cameraman through my peripheral, I got distracted, and one time almost tripped over [a] speaker trying to make sure I’m not walking in the same direction as him. He was too far downstage. A cameraman is not supposed to be that far downstage unless he’s with you and shooting you that close for a reason. It really can throw you off.”

He also apologized for his behavior.

“I will take accountability for being 0 to 100 type of person, and this is why I stay out the way most of the time lol,” he said. “To the cameraman, you got caught in the crossfire, my boi, and I’m sorry u had to experience that! It was nothing personal.”

He even extended the apology, going as far as to invite him to be hired for future work.

“You’re welcome to come and shoot me on tour, it will be “Nothing But Us” tour, and we can do it the right way! To the fans who were triggered, I love you.”

According to a spokesperson with the Big Fresno Fair, Hudgins was contracted by Brad Jaurique Promotions, who put on the concert, to capture content for social media.

She adds that Mario’s security team had been informed in advance of all videographers, house security personnel, and other stage-related details. However, she said the information may not have made it directly to the artist himself, leading to “a moment of misunderstanding.”

“Live concerts are dynamic environments, and there’s always a balance between the artist’s space on stage and efforts to capture the fan experience. While that line may have briefly been crossed, it didn’t take away from an outstanding night celebrating some of the most beloved R&B acts of the 2000s,” the spokeswoman said.