In transcripts acquired by New York Daily News on Wednesday (Aug. 27), Chapman said, "I'm sorry for being such an idiot and choosing the wrong way for glory."

Chapman also said, "Many, many people loved him. He was a great and talented man and they are still hurting. I get letters so that's a major factor. It's not a regular crime."

Chapman fired five shots on Dec. 8, 1980, outside the Dakota apartment house where Lennon lived on Manhattan's Upper West Side, hitting the ex-Beatle four times. After pleading guilty to second-degree murder, Chapman was sentenced 20 years to life in prison in 1981.

During the appeal, Chapman also allegedly bragged to the board about the "incredible planning, absolutely, incredible stalking" that went into the murder of the Beatle.