Hugh Grant criticized for 'rude' 2023 Oscars interview with Ashley Graham: Watch
Not everyone is visibly enthused to be at the 2023 Oscars.
Hugh Grant was the subject of social media jokes and criticism on Sunday night after an awkward and trite moment with Academy Awards red carpet presenter Ashley Graham. The model, 35, who stunned in a sheer black Alberta Ferretti gown, started off the interview by asking a seemingly disinterested Grant about his excitement for the night.
In response, the "Love Actually" star hesitatingly responded, "Um, well it's fascinating. The whole humanity is here."
As to whether he's rooting for any actor or movie to take home a big prize tonight, Grant answered, "no one in particular."
Graham then pivoted the discussion to inquire about Grant's look for the night, a black-and-white tuxedo.
"Just my suit," Grant said, noting that he "can't remember" the designer and instead crediting his tailor.
I don’t understand this from Hugh Grant. If you don’t want to be interviewed, don’t take the mic, smile politely and keep walking. Kudos to @ashleygraham for trying repeatedly to get something interesting out of him. #Oscars pic.twitter.com/Q2AeUpPGRi
— April (@ReignOfApril) March 13, 2023
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Fans on social media were divided over the brief interview, with some applauding Graham for her professionalism and positivity throughout.
"Ashley Graham deserves an honorary Oscar for putting up with Hugh Grant," one user @jamiebgolden wrote.
Ashley Graham deserves an honorary Oscar for putting up with Hugh Grant. Don't walk the carpet if you don't walk to talk about THE ACTUAL OSCARS.
— Jamie B. Golden (@jamiebgolden) March 12, 2023
"This poor interviewer... the night hasn't even started and Hugh Grant has already had it," another user @DevlinWilder wrote.
This poor interviewer…the night hasn’t even started and Hugh Grant has already had it. #Oscars #redcarpet pic.twitter.com/wbpKqULFgq
— Devlin (@DevlinWilder) March 12, 2023
"Ashley Graham NAILED this interview when High Grant gave her literally nothing," user @KingOfHotTopics wrote. "If you don't want to do press or interviews, then just go to the ceremony or stay home."
Ashley Graham NAILED this interview when Hugh Grant gave her literally nothing. If you don’t want to do press or interviews, then just go to the ceremony or stay home. #Oscars pic.twitter.com/a7kSCjVA4D
— Noel (@KingOfHotTopics) March 12, 2023
Others criticized Grant's lack of enthusiasm, calling the interview "a painful watch."
"Why was he so rude ... ??" user @cjgproduxions wrote. "Then he rolled his eyes when he walked off."
Why was he so rude … ?? Then he rolled his eyes when he walked off #HughGrant #Oscars pic.twitter.com/BIJ53d8y38
— CJ G (@cjgproduxions) March 12, 2023
"Hugh Grant wins the Oscar for...Jerk of the Night!!!" user @NadineBabu added.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hugh Grant sparks backlash for 'rude,' 'painful' Oscars 2023 interview