Jerry Seinfeld caused a stir when he suggested that he might be on the autism spectrum, but now the comedian is clarifying that he does not have the disorder. (Michael Goulding/Orange County Register/TNS)

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld is backing off comments he made earlier this month suggesting that he may be on the autism spectrum.

In an interview with Access Hollywood, Seinfeld clarified that he does not have the developmental disorder.

“I don’t have autism. I’m not on the spectrum,” the 60-year-old comic said. “I just was watching this play about it and thought, why am I relating to something? I related to it on some level. That’s all I was saying.”

Seinfeld’s comments come just weeks after he told NBC News that he sees traits of autism in himself, explaining that he’s very literal and often struggles with social engagement.

“I think on a very drawn-out scale, I think I’m on the spectrum,” he said at the time.

The suggestion that Seinfeld, who’s currently promoting his web series, “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee,” might have autism sparked controversy among those affected by the developmental disorder.

Some advocates welcomed Seinfeld’s acknowledgement, but others criticized the celebrity arguing that by attempting to self-diagnose he was making light of a disorder that can bring significant challenges.

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