Ads< p>
Last night at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, tennis superstar Serena Williams made a joke during her acceptance speech that has people wondering - did she take a subtle dig at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle?
Williams was being honored with the Virtuoso Award at the film festival. During her acceptance speech, she said "It's well actually pretty often that I get to be in a room with actual royalty, and tonight is no exception. Harry and Meghan are here." She then added "Harry and Meghan, please try not to breathe too much tonight because this is my night and I don't want to be overshadowed by the accusations that you guys are taking up too much oxygen."
Ads
The comment seems like it could be perceived as a diss towards Harry and Meghan. Many have speculated that Williams was making a joke about the couple's tendency to attract media attention and controversy. Some key facts that lead to this interpretation:
- Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in 2020 and moved to California, citing media intrusion as a major reason. They have continued speaking out about their experience.
- The couple have given high-profile interviews where they accused the royal family of racism and lack of support, generating intense media coverage and division of opinion.
- Saying they take up "too much oxygen" could be seen as playing on the idea that they like to be the center of attention and media narratives.
Ads
However, the joke could also be interpreted more charitably. Williams and Meghan are known to be good friends, and the tennis star was likely trying to acknowledge their presence in an amusing way. Some possible alternative takes:
- Williams may have been poking gentle fun at her friends in a respectful manner, not intending any real criticism. As a friend, she would have more leeway for friendly teasing.
- Referencing the "accusations" could be a nod to their critics rather than an endorsement of the views, playing with the tensions surrounding Harry and Meghan in a lighthearted way.
Ads
- The royals laughed along with the quip, suggesting they did not take offense. Williams may have run the joke by them beforehand to ensure it did not cause real issues.
So in summary, it remains ambiguous as to whether Williams' comment was a subtle diss or friendly ribbing between acquaintances. As someone closely connected to Meghan, she would be in a position to know how her words might land. The couple's positive reaction indicates they at least did not feel truly disrespected in the moment.
However, the nature of celebrity jokes and wordplay means meanings can be interpreted various ways after the fact. Some commentators arguing it was shady, while others insist it was said respectfully between friends. Ultimately, only Williams herself knows her true intent.
Ads
The debate once again shines a light on Harry and Meghan's personas as notably polarizing public figures. Even the smallest gestures related to them often ignite fervent online discussion and speculation as to hidden meanings or slights. Their presence at high profile events like the SBIFF continues to guarantee scrutiny of every interaction.
For now, the friendly atmosphere of the night and the couple taking it in seeming stride suggests any perceived diss by Williams was not the offensive takedown some online claim. But as with anything involving this duo, differing viewpoints are inevitable as to what was really said between the lines. Only time will tell if this becomes another moment dissected in the ongoing analysis of Harry and Meghan's relationship with both family and celebrity peers.
Ads
In the end, whether intended or not, Williams injected an intriguing storyline into her acceptance of simply acknowledging Harry and Meghan's attendance. And so the discussion continues around every word and movement of this perpetually polarizing royal couple.
Post a Comment