Fashion Police's Academy Awards special on Feb. 23 angered viewers after host Giuliana Rancic described Zendaya's locs as making her look like she "smells like patchouli oil." "Or weed," someone added.
"Maybe weed," Rancic agreed.
The hairstyle was a new look for the young singer, who most recently sported a pixie cut.
People were horrified at the comment, which many interpreted as racially loaded.
.@GiulianaRancic for someone whos been attacked for her looks in the media id think you would know what its like and wouldnt be so hateful
ELIAS@wtfeliasFollow
.@GiulianaRancic for someone whos been attacked for her looks in the media id think you would know what its like and wouldnt be so hateful
11:44 PM - 23 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
Not that it matters @GiulianaRancic , but in case you were wondering my locs smell like shea butter and college tuition.
Professor Oak@itzCharlieBrownFollow
Not that it matters @GiulianaRancic , but in case you were wondering my locs smell like shea butter and college tuition.
11:35 PM - 23 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
Your racist and xenophobic statement about Zendaya's hair wasn't funny. Try being interesting, for once. Make it a goal. @GiulianaRancic
Trudy@thetrudzFollow
Your racist and xenophobic statement about Zendaya's hair wasn't funny. Try being interesting, for once. Make it a goal. @GiulianaRancic
11:27 PM - 23 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
still waiting for @ENews & @GiulianaRancic to explain, retract and apologize for this. and @Zendaya, where are you? http://t.co/uWML0Ks4FU
trapqueen ♚@TeeThaGoddessFollow
still waiting for @ENews & @GiulianaRancic to explain, retract and apologize for this. and @Zendaya, where are you? http://t.co/uWML0Ks4FU
11:02 PM - 23 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
Some also pointed out the hypocrisy of the comment, because Rancic has praised Kylie Jenner for wearing dreadlocks.
But Kylie Jenner's hair is cool and edgy though, right? Foh @GiulianaRancic RT @dirtyxluxury: wow. http://t.co/VLj4pR6h95
#JeSuisPaiPai@heyPAIDAFollow
But Kylie Jenner's hair is cool and edgy though, right? Foh @GiulianaRancic RT @dirtyxluxury: wow. http://t.co/VLj4pR6h95
10:54 PM - 23 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
im glad giuliana rancic is catching flack for that comment. she thought kylies dreads were edgy but zendayas are dirty. hmm.
lil mama@princessg4yFollow
im glad giuliana rancic is catching flack for that comment. she thought kylies dreads were edgy but zendayas are dirty. hmm.
11:22 PM - 23 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
Zendaya herself took to Twitter to write a passionate statement about being "hit with ignorant slurs and pure disrespect," listing scores of inspiring people who also rock the hairstyle.
Zendaya@Zendaya"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 wrote.
The singer and actress, who has been a frequent guest host on the show, added:
"There is already 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. My wearing my hair in locs on an Oscar red carpet was to showcase them in a positive light, to remind people of color that our hair is good enough."
Zendaya at the Academy Awards.
Rancic wrote an apology on Twitter, saying her comments had "NOTHING to do with race."
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!!!
Giuliana Rancic@GiulianaRancicFollow
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!!!
12:10 AM - 24 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
Osbourne also chimed in an hour later, saying that she and Zendaya are friends.
I WILL NOT BE DRAGED INTO THIS! The situation is being rectified like ADULTS by both parties. I hope you can leave it to them & do the same!
Kelly Osbourne@KellyOsbourneFollow
I WILL NOT BE DRAGED INTO THIS! The situation is being rectified like ADULTS by both parties. I hope you can leave it to them & do the same!
1:16 AM - 24 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
you guys do realize that @Zendaya is my friend right?
you guys do realize that @Zendaya is my friend right?
1:27 AM - 24 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
Osbourne denied being a part of the conversation on Twitter, saying she might leave the show because of the accusations. The post has been update as it's not clear whether Osbourne or Kathy Griffin made the comment.
I DID NOT MAKE THE WEED COMENT. I DO NOT CONDONE RACISM SO AS A RSULT OF THIS IM SEREIOULSY QUESTIONONIG STAYING ON THE SHOW!
I DID NOT MAKE THE WEED COMENT. I DO NOT CONDONE RACISM SO AS A RSULT OF THIS IM SEREIOULSY QUESTIONONIG STAYING ON THE SHOW!
4:35 PM - 24 Feb 15ReplyRetweetFavorite
Representatives for E! did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
On Tuesday night, E! released a video message from Rancic, apologizing to Zendaya "and anyone else out there that [she has] hurt."
