A clip of America Ferrera, star of Greta Gerwig’s colossal blockbuster Barbie, engaging in an ‘awkward’ interaction with a social media influencer is making rounds across the various corners of the internet.
The moment, which occurred on the red carpet at this year’s People’s Choice Awards, has prompted the wrath of netizens, especially after witnessing the question that the 39-year-old Oscar-nominated star was asked.
Not only has the unusual encounter sparked debate about the professionalism and credibility of TikTok stars, but it has come at a time when singer-songwriter Billie Eilish’s ‘TikTokers’ comment coincidentally at the same award ceremony generated similar discussions.
Many people have begun to question the role of these internet influencers at these shows, particularly about their placement among industry professionals on media lines.
Barbie Star America Ferrera Gets Asked A Bizarre Question By A TikTok Star
Award shows tend to examine the trajectory of one’s career. It examines their evolution, acknowledges their work, and honors the legacy they’ve endured or are about to create for themselves in a particular industry. It’s a celebration of the culmination of one’s efforts and, naturally, demands decorum.
Of course, there can always be room for jokes, gags, and lighthearted remarks.
That has always characterized the involvement of hosts. Say, Ricky Gervais at the Golden Globes. Or the times Amy Poehler and Tina Fey hosted the show. Jimmy Kimmel at the Oscars, too, can serve as an example. David Tennant’s much-recent stint at the BAFTAs may also come to people’s minds.
However, when it concerns the inclusion of industry experts (usually journalists and photographers) on the press line at an event’s red carpet, the opportunity to have a conversation with the creatives presents a chance for fruitful dialogue and rapport building. A fundamental level of professionalism is expected from the exchanges they commit to.
Deflecting from that, though, can lead to controversy. That is primarily why fans have been angered by this latest America Ferrera moment at the People’s Choice Awards. Following is the clip that has met the wrath of netizens:
Not to be a buzzkill, but stuff just isn’t even funny and shouldn’t be allowed on media lines. She looks so uncomfortable. pic.twitter.com/FxcREXSckQ
— yasmine | ياسمين (@filmwithyas) February 20, 2024
In the video above, TikTok influencer Harry Daniels (@harry.daniels / @harrylovespandas) was seen talking to America Ferrera, and the question he asked was, “Gay son or th*t daughter?” To which a confused Ferrera was seen briefly replying, “Uh, both? I don’t know.”
While the internet personality is known for content that reaps a reaction out of celebrities, which is why many deem him a ‘celebrity troll,’ the moment captured in the clip hasn’t sat well with online users. Barring the harsh comments being spewed on the matter, the exchange has led many to revisit the debate that Billie Eilish‘s recent ‘TikTokers’ quip ignited.
As you can presumably tell, the criticism hasn’t been light and has gathered hundreds of likes, with individuals in accord with the sentiment.
Netizens React To The ‘Unfunny’ Moment, With Some Calling It ‘Gross’
One of the common responses to this viral clip involved people questioning the need for the TikTok star (or any TikTok influencers, for that matter) on the press line at the award show. A few commented that, while many outstanding social media content creators have been able to better interact with celebrities, this exchange felt extremely unprofessional and unnecessary.
Others brought up Billie Eilish’s remark (via Pop Crave) at the People’s Choice Awards, where she was seen conversing with the legendary Kylie Minogue and saying, in the least impressed fashion, “There’s some like… TikTokers here.” While the moment could have been a harmless observation, it prompted people to discuss their disapproval of TikTok influencers being everywhere nowadays.
America Ferrera’s encounter with Harry Daniels just added fuel to the fire.
Following are some of the reactions people had to these recent developments:
TikTok influencers like this just shouldn’t exist. There are so many great creators on TikTok, and THESE are the people that get attention. It’s so embarrassing.
— Tevye Colstock (@TJUC123) February 21, 2024
All this whilst there are people dying for opportunities to be part of these events but will never get the chance. Why would you even ask that?
— Joe Muldoon (@JoeMuldoonFilm) February 20, 2024
Billie's point highlights the difference between fame and influence. While TikTok influencers can command attention, truly impactful presence often requires depth that goes beyond viral content.
— positivity moon (@arrtnem) February 21, 2024
A lot of people, don’t realize their internet humor doesn’t translate well irl. And this isn’t just a tiktoker problem just a problem with people who use social media more than they interact with people in real life. https://t.co/r5Ef6EulZ5
— Aerin (@FromAerin) February 21, 2024
All around insulting – toward her work for not bothering to ask a question about her career, and toward the many journalists who will never get invited to an event like this that would be ecstatic to be in this position.
— Hannah Hunt (@amazingspidrhan) February 21, 2024
perfectly worded!!! a few select from that platform deserve but this is what is happens when it’s not just the ones that do serious work.
— kenzie xcx 🫀 (@kenzvanunu) February 20, 2024
In a nutshell, people aren’t amazed.
While some have argued that this is the TikTok personality’s entire gimmick and should be taken in stride, others have responded by highlighting that remarks such as this diminish the purpose of celebratory award shows, where the culture relies on acknowledging the work a talent has done and engaging in fruitful conversations that honor the decorum of such events.
According to these users, the involvement of social media influencers who get access to the red carpet also takes opportunities away from ‘actual’ journalists who may yearn for a similar privilege but are denied so in favor of social media influencers and their large following.
Nonetheless, many people defended the TikTok star, too, claiming that people deeming the ‘fun’ interaction disrespectful are treading a snobbish line and that the PCAs aren’t the ‘pinnacle of prestigious events.’
The matter continues to remain the bone of contention.
At the 2024 People’s Choice Awards, America Ferrera won the People’s Movie Performance of the Year award for her role in Barbie (2023). She is also currently nominated for the Best Supporting Actress Oscar, the results of which will be known during the official ceremony scheduled for March 10, 2024.
