ZENDAYA’S red carpet look at the 2015 Oscars earned a mixed reception from fashion critics.
However, it was Giuliana Rancic’s Fashion Police comments about the Euphoria star that went viral.
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What happened between Zendaya and Giuliana Rancic?
Zendaya and Giuliana Rancic had a falling out after the latter made negative remarks about the Malcolm and Marie actress’ hairstyle at the 87th Academy Awards.
While co-hosting E! Fashion Police, Giuliana commented: “She has such a tiny frame that this hair overwhelms her. I feel like she smells like patchouli oil or weed.”
Giuliana was met with backlash from viewers who considered her remarks racially insensitive.
In the wake of the controversy, Zendaya took to Instagram to respond to the E! broadcaster.
“There is a fine line between what is funny and disrespectful,” the Disney Channel alum replied.
“Someone said something about my hair at the Oscars that left me in awe. Not because I was relishing in rave outfit reviews, but because I was hit with ignorant slurs and pure disrespect.
“To say that an 18-year-old young woman with locs must smell of patchouli oil or ‘weed’ is not only a large stereotype but outrageously offensive.”
She added: “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.”
“I don’t usually feel the need to respond to negative things but certain remarks cannot go unchecked.”
When did Giuliana apologize to Zendaya?
On February 24, 2015, Giuliana issued an apology to Zendaya via Twitter.
The Fashion Police alum tweeted: “Dear @Zendaya, I’m sorry I offended you and others.
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“I was referring to a bohemian chic look. Had NOTHING to do with race and NEVER would!!!”
Later that same Tuesday, she elaborated further on her remorse via E! News and explained: “I want to apologize for a comment that I made on last night’s Fashion Police about Zendaya’s hair.
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“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.”
She stated: “Therefore, I want to say to Zendaya and anyone else out there that I have hurt, that I am so, so sincerely sorry.
“This really has been a learning experience for me. I have learned a lot today.
“This incident has taught me to be a lot more aware of clichés and stereotypes, how much damage they can do, and that I am responsible, as we all are, to not perpetuate them further.”
How did Zendaya respond?
Zendaya appeared to accept Giuliana’s apology and expressed on Instagram: “Giuliana, I appreciate your apology and I’m glad it was a learning experience for you and for the network.
“I have so many people looking up to me, that I couldn’t be scared, wait it out, nor could I just stand up for me…I had to do it for WE.”
After the controversy settled, Mattel released a version of Barbie in Zendaya’s likeness.
The line of dolls even featured the dress and hairstyle that was the centerpiece between the Dune actress and the TV host.
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