In March of 1966, John Lennon commented on the Beatles' fame: "We're more popular than Jesus now" This did not sit well with the religious southern US (many album-buying customers...), and radio stations went as far as banning the Beatles, and even public record burnings. In full damage-control mode, this was Lennon's response:

"I was not saying whatever they're saying I was saying. I'm sorry I said it really. I never meant it to be a lousy anti-religious thing. I apologize if that will make you happy. I still do not know quite what I've done. I've tried to tell you what I did do, but if you want me to apologize, if that will make you happy, then OK, I'm sorry."

But later, and perhaps somewhat sarcastically:

"I always remember to thank Jesus for the end of my touring days; if I hadn't said that The Beatles were 'bigger than Jesus' and upset the very Christian Ku Klux Klan, well, Lord, I might still be up there with all the other performing fleas! God bless America. Thank you, Jesus.