Story highlights Bill Maher says he's "very sorry" for using racial epithet

Maher's exchange with Sen. Ben Sasse sparks outrage on social media

(CNN) Comedian Bill Maher apologized Saturday for using a racial slur during an interview the night before with Republican Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska on his HBO show.

"Friday nights are always my worst night of sleep because I'm up reflecting on the things I should or shouldn't have said on my live show," Maher said in a statement. "Last night was a particularly long night as I regret the word I used in the banter of a live moment. The word was offensive, and I regret saying it and am very sorry."

Sasse was promoting his book, "The Vanishing American Adult," on "Real Time With Bill Maher."

The two were discussing teenagers and maturity when Maher mentioned that adults dress up for Halloween in California. He then asked Sasse if people do that in Nebraska.

"It's frowned upon. We don't do that quite as much," Sasse said.

Read More