If he were aware of his background, he wouldn't have mentioned him as a role model. I don't mean it in a "my fave would never!!1" way (I actually don't have a clue where he stands on any of those issues), he is just generally wary to not say anything controversial. He's had the ugliest shitshow of a dating "scandal" early in his career, and it made him extremely careful with words, always making sure to not upset the fans.

I think when he says role model he means as an artist/singer? I don't remember where and in what context he mentioned Chris Brown in particular, but in a few interviews I remember him addressing his role models, the motivation was always professional, not personal: "XYZ because he is a skilled vocalist who was able to sing well until the old age", and the like.