The 28th Critics Choice Awards held in California have become a source of controversy due to a joke made by event presenters Bella Ramsey and Anthony Ramos. Fans of Ariana DeBose, who won an Oscar for her acting and singing performance in West Side Story, are criticizing the presenters for their remarks during the presentation of the Best Song category.
While naming some of the most famous voices in the music industry, including Billie Eilish, Lenny Kravitz, and Dua Lipa, Ramsey added a comment that sparked the controversy. She said, “Then there are the actors who also think they’re singers: Jack Black, Ariana DeBose, and, Ken himself, Ryan Gosling.” The camera then cut to Ariana DeBose, who appeared surprised and puzzled by the statement, although not visibly upset.
Many viewers took issue with the mention of DeBose’s name, given her recent Oscar win. Critics also pointed out that the joke appeared scripted, possibly read directly from the teleprompter and not written by Ramsey herself, who is 20 years old.
In response to the controversy, 32-year-old Ariana DeBose took to her Instagram story, stating, “No, I didn’t find it funny. Lol.” Infuriated fans expressed their discontent on social media, emphasizing DeBose’s status as an Academy Award winner and suggesting that Ramsey should be aware of her limits when making such remarks. The incident has sparked a conversation about the boundaries of humor and sensitivity, especially when it comes to acknowledging the achievements of individuals in the entertainment industry.