Michael Lohan once condemned Samantha Ronson for being a bad influence on his 23-year-old daughter, blaming her for many of Lindsay's recent problems, including a stalled film career and potential substance abuse issues. But now Michael tells Life & Style he was wrong about Samantha, offering a formal apology. "I want to say I'm sorry for anything negative I said about Sam," Michael says. "It was totally off-color." In fact, Michael, 49, now says he's grateful for Sam's influence on Lindsay. "I appreciate that she cares about Lindsay's health and well-being," he says, adding best wishes to Sam on her recent 32nd birthday.

What caused Michael's abrupt 180-degree turn-around? According to Michael, it was a recent, long-overdue private meeting at Sam's LA home. Michael says he came away from the meeting with a new outlook on Lindsay and Sam's relationship. "I really see Sam in a whole different light now," admits Michael, who says he allowed other people's negative opinions about Sam influence his own.

For more from Michael on Lindsay & Sam's relationship, pick up this week's issue of Life & Style, on newsstands now!

Photo Credit: Startraks