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Comedian Hannah Berner has found herself in hot water after an awkward exchange with Megan Thee Stallion at a post-Oscars event sparked online backlash. During the Vanity Fair after-party on March 2, Berner, while gushing over the rapper, remarked that she listens to Megan’s music when she wants to "fight someone." The comment was meant as a compliment but quickly drew criticism, with some labeling it a "microaggression."
Berner, clearly unaware of the controversy brewing, was all smiles during the interview, enthusiastically praising Megan’s music for boosting her confidence. However, as clips of the conversation spread online, social media users called out her choice of words, arguing that associating a Black female artist’s music with aggression played into harmful stereotypes.
Realizing the impact of her statement, Berner took to Instagram on March 6 to issue an apology. She expressed regret over her "careless choice of words," emphasizing that there was no ill intent. She explained that she meant to highlight Megan’s empowering influence but acknowledged that her phrasing carried unintended connotations. "Looking back, I wish I used any other word except ‘fight’ to describe how her songs impact me," she admitted.
Megan Thee Stallion, ever the cool-headed queen, responded gracefully in the moment. Instead of dwelling on the remark, she smoothly redirected the conversation, saying, "Because you want to throw that fighting s— out the window and be a bad b—h." Her calm and confident response seemed to defuse the situation at the time, but the internet had already picked up on the issue.
Berner isn’t the only celebrity to spark controversy at this year’s Oscars. Adrien Brody, who won Best Actor for _The Brutalist_, raised eyebrows when he casually tossed his chewed gum at his girlfriend before taking the stage. While Brody later laughed it off, saying he simply "had to get rid of it somehow," the moment left audiences cringing.
Berner’s blunder is a classic example of how seemingly innocent comments can take on unintended meanings, especially in today’s hyper-aware media landscape. While her apology was swift and seemingly sincere, it remains to be seen whether the public will fully forgive and forget. In the age of social media, one offhand remark can turn into a viral storm—reminding celebrities and influencers alike to think twice before they speak.
