“She smells like patchouli oil or weed”: When MCU Star Zendaya Finally Decided to Answer Giuliana Rancic’s Racist Remarks on Her Hairstyle
Zendaya, a versatile talent and rising star in the entertainment sector, has captivated people all over the world. She has become a prominent figure, particularly among younger generations, thanks to her compelling charisma, extraordinary talent, and unrelenting activism for social concerns. From her debut appearance in Disney Channel’s Shake It Up to critically lauded performances in projects such as Euphoria and Spider-Man: Homecoming, Zendaya has continued to redefine celebrity.
Zendaya and Giuliana Rancic clashed at the 87th Academy Awards when the latter made disparaging remarks about the Malcolm and Marie actress’ haircut. Viewers who thought Rancic’s words were racially offensive, reacted angrily. Following the uproar, Zendaya took to Instagram to respond to the E- broadcaster. “There’s a fine line between what’s funny and what’s disrespectful,” the Disney Channel alum said.
The 2015 feud between Rancic vs. Zendaya
In a controversial incident that sparked widespread debate and highlighted the sensitive issue of racial stereotypes, Giuliana Rancic, a well-known figure on the television show Fashion Police, made a remark about Zendaya’s dreads that ignited outrage. Giuliana’s comment, suggesting that the Disney star’s hairstyle made her seem like she exuded the scent of patchouli oil or weed, was met with swift condemnation. Zendaya responded eloquently, emphasizing the existing prejudice faced by African American individuals regarding their hair, and calling Rancic’s remark “outrageously offensive.” Recognizing the impact of her words, Giuliana Rancic promptly offered an apology, acknowledging the ignorance behind her judgment.
“That’s how change happens and it made me think, ‘How could I always have a lasting impact on what people saw and associated with people of color?’” Zendaya says in the interview with her Malcolm and Marie co-star, John David Washington. “There is already a harsh criticism of African American hair in society without the help of ignorant people who choose to judge others based on the curl of their hair,” she added.
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Did Giuliana Rancic apologize to Zendaya?
Rancic apologized on Twitter on February 24, 2015. The Fashion Police alum tweeted:
“Dear @Zendaya, I’m sorry I offended you and others. I was referring to a bohemian chic look. Had NOTHING to do with race and NEVER would!!!”
“I understand that something I said last night did cross the line. I just want everyone to know I didn’t intend to hurt anybody. But I’ve learned that it is not my intent that matters, it’s the result and the result is people are offended, including Zendaya, and that is not okay. Therefore, I want to say to Zendaya and anyone else out there that I have hurt, that I am so, so sincerely sorry.” Giuliana Rancic stated.
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Zendaya expressed her desire for a positive outcome from the incident, emphasizing her hope that people would learn and grow from it. As a former child star, she recognized the importance of using such experiences as opportunities for personal and collective growth. Zendaya also wished for the show involved to embrace the chance to learn, evolve, and foster a more positive environment, contributing to a broader culture of inclusivity and understanding.
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Source: Entertainment Tonight
