Rocker Stevie Nicks has backtracked on her comments regarding the argument that took place on the set of 'American Idol' between Nicki Minaj and Mariah Carey, and has said sorry for 'speaking without thinking'.

Earlier this week, the Fleetwood Mac icon exclaimed that she would have "walked over to Nicki and strangled her to death right there" if she had been there during the feud that was caught on camera and subsequently leaked online, but she has now apologised for her harsh words.

In a statement issued to Just Jared, Nicks explained that she made the comments after a taxing day and wasn't thinking about the repercussions of what she said:

"I want to apologize for my remarks about Nicki Minaj’s behavior toward Mariah Carey which I said during a long and exhausting day of interviews. It was very out of character for me and I deeply regret what I said."

"I feel very protective toward Mariah Carey, who has gone through many difficulties in her life and I spoke without thinking. I think all artists should be respectful toward one another and that includes me. I am truly sorry."

Watch the footage of the 'American Idol' on-set argument below: