Tracy Morgan: Comedian fights back tears as he gives first interview since accident

James 'Jimmy Mack' McNair was killed in New Jersey accident a year ago

Tracy Morgan said he was not yet ready to return to comedy (Reuters)

The comedian Tracy Morgan struggled to control his emotions as he gave his first interview since he was injured in an accident with a truck one year ago that killed

The start of the shows 30 Rock and Saturday Night Live, held a cane and was accompanied by his lawyer as he was interviewed on NBC's Today programme. He said he was hungry to return to performing but was not able to to so.

“I love comedy and I can't wait to get back to it. But right now my goal is just to heal and get better because I'm not 100 per cent yet,” he said.

He added: “And when I’m there, you'll know it. I’ll get back to making you laugh, I promise you.”

Shortly after the interview, in his first Twitter post since the accident, Morgan said to his more than three million followers: "It's been a year. Just wanted to say thank you for all your love and support. Will see you soon."

Reuters said that Morgan, 46, and others were injured in a crash last year in New Jersey that killed comedian James 'Jimmy Mack' McNair.

Last week, those who were injured, including Morgan, reached an out-of-court settlement with Wal-Mart, the world's largest retailer last week, whose truck was involved in the accident.

The terms and conditions of the settlement were not disclosed. The company said it was deeply sorry that one of its trucks was involved in the accident, the news agency said.

Morgan was in a coma and suffered a serious head injury and broken bones. He spent months recuperating and still suffers headaches and nosebleeds, but he said the loss of his friend was the hardest burden to bear.

“The case is settled but the pain is always going to be there for Jimmy Mack. He was a good man, a warm man,” he said, tears in his eyes.

“Bones heal but the loss of my friend will never heal because we knew each other a long time. But I am happy that Wal-Mart stepped up to the plate in a tremendous way and they took full responsibility. I know my friend can rest in peace now.”

Mr McNair's two children, Danita and Jamel, settled their lawsuit against Wal-Mart in January for $10m, which will be split between them.

Mr Morgan’s lawyer, Benedict Morelli, said the company's Chief Executive Doug McMillon planned to meet with the comedian this week to deliver a personal apology.