Hannah Berner has publicly apologized after facing backlash for her post-Oscars party interview with Megan Thee Stallion. The Giggly Squad podcast host received criticism for her words while speaking to the rapper at Vanity Fair’s Oscar after-party red carpet on March 2.
Why did Hannah Berner apologize?
During the red carpet event, Berner and her co-host, Paige DeSorbo, interviewed Megan Thee Stallion, a Grammy-winning artist. While DeSorbo praised Megan’s music as a daily motivator, Berner took a different approach. She exclaimed, “Your music has literally made me, like, when I want to fight someone, I listen to your music.”
Megan responded, “You want to throw that fighting shit out the window. You want to get cute and be a bad bitch.” Despite Megan Thee Stallion’s attempt to steer the conversation positively, Hannah Berner doubled down, adding, “When people are talking shit, I go, ‘Turn on Megan Thee Stallion!’” (via HuffPost)
The comments drew criticism online, with many accusing Berner of perpetuating microaggressions and racial insensitivity. Megan Thee Stallion’s music often carries messages of confidence and self-empowerment, and she has condemned violence, especially against Black women, in the past.
In response to the backlash, Hannah Berner took to Instagram Stories to address the situation. She wrote, “Interviewing Megan Thee Stallion was a dream of mine. I love her music and it’s my go-to whenever I need to boost my confidence before a show.” (via People)
Reflecting on her choice of words, she added, “Looking back at the interview, I wish I used any other word except ‘fight’ to describe how her songs impact me. It was a careless choice of words, and though there was no ill intent, I recognize and acknowledge that what I said has a deeper meaning. I am so sorry to Megan.”
Hannah Berner concluded by thanking those who brought the issue to her attention, emphasizing her appreciation for Megan’s music and influence.
