Singer resigns after admitting abuse

J Williams and Larissa Brown. Photo / Supplied

Pop star J Williams has been dropped as a Rugby World Cup ambassador, after revelations that he abused his former partner, the mother of his young son.

Williams, who in February was chosen in Auckland mayor Len Brown's first XV of public figures initiative, yesterday asked to be dropped from the team.

Others on the team include Sir John Walker, Bernice Mene and Ruben Wiki.

At the February announcement, Mr Brown described the 24-year-old as a "great young talent coming through, loved by the young people of our community".

Last night a council spokesman said the mayor had been disappointed by the revelations and had accepted Williams' request. The mayor would this week be looking for a replacement.

In this week's issue of the New Zealand Woman's Weekly magazine, Williams admits that his "demon" - his drinking problem - was what fuelled his abuse towards his long-time girlfriend.

He revealed that his relationship with Larissa "Leo" Brown, had been an abusive one.

He said he was disgusted at himself.

"Just like every other relationship, there have been scuffles here and there," he says.

"This is a problem I need to sort out. This just shows me that I have hurt her emotionally and physically."

Ms Brown has worked as a fashion stylist for various celebrities including Kylie Minogue and Benji Marshall.

The 26-year-old and Williams attended South Auckland's James Cook High School together.

Ms Brown gave birth to the couple's first child, a son named Ryder Leo, just over two months ago.

Williams said he broke up with Ms Brown - who he had been seeing and lived with for just over two years - while she was in labour.

He admitted it was "bad timing".

"I'm disgusted with myself, with the timing," he told the magazine.

"But I tell her every day that I'm sorry and I'm seriously trying to change."

Williams was a dancer for hip-hop dance crew Prestige, before he kicked off his singing career.

His song You Got Me, featuring rapper Scribe, topped the Kiwi singles chart last year.

He wrote the song for Ms Brown, who also featured in the video clip.

Ms Brown's Facebook page still shows many pictures of the couple together.

She wrote on her page: "Love yourself, your mind, body and soul, there are no refunds or exchange policies.

"My son is all that matters in this lifetime!"