After facing severe backlash from the netizens for appearing in an advertisement for a tobacco brand, actor Akshay Kumar has now apologized and stepped down as the brand ambassador of the company's product. Taking to his social media handles, Khiladi Kumar, while announcing his decision of disassociation with the tobacco brand, he apologized to his fans as he penned a note saying, 'I am sorry. I would like to apologise to you, all my fans and well-wishers. Your reaction over the past few days has deeply affected me. While I have not and will not endorse tobacco, I respect the outpouring of your feelings in light of my association with Vimal Elaichi. With all humility, I step back.' He further added that the fee he has received for doing the ad will be contributed to a worthy cause. He also stated that he will be careful in the future before picking up any such advertisements. 'I have decided to contribute the entire endorsement fee towards a worthy cause. The brand might continue airing the ads till the legal duration of the contract that is binding upon me, but I promise to be extremely mindful in making my future choices. In return I shall forever continue to ask for your love and wishes,' he wrote.