Internet slams Robert Downey Jr for 'ignoring' Ke Huy Quan while receiving Oscar for Best Supporting Actor
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Robert Downey Jr found himself at the center of controversy following his acceptance speech at the 96th Academy Awards, where he won the coveted Best Supporting Actor award for 'Oppenheimer'.
The actor's actions onstage drew criticism from online users, who accused him of displaying a lack of "class" and "ignoring" one of the presenters.
#Oppenheimer star Robert Downey Jr. wins the award for best actor in a supporting role at the 2024 #Oscars pic.twitter.com/J8z5GBEPSp
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 11, 2024
Robert Downey Jr accused of 'ignoring' Ke Huy Quan during Oscars win
At the Oscars, nominees were individually announced by five former winners, including last year's Best Supporting Actor recipient, Ke Huy Quan.
However, as Quan enthusiastically announced Downey Jr's name and handed him the Oscar statuette, social media users noticed what they perceived as a lack of acknowledgment from the actor.
As Downey Jr ascended the stage, he appeared to scan the presenters for his Oscar, even asking aloud, "Where's my Oscar?"
While Quan eagerly handed him the award, Downey Jr reportedly did not make eye contact with him, instead immediately interacting with Tim Robbins and Sam Rockwell.
Many online observers noted Quan's apparent disappointment as he received only a tap on the arm from Downey Jr in acknowledgment. Furthermore, during his acceptance speech, Downey Jr failed to mention the former winners by name, thanking them only as "fellas" behind him.
The incident sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with users expressing disappointment in Downey Jr's behavior and questioning his conduct towards Quan. The actor has yet to address the backlash surrounding his Oscars moment, but he was seen being convivial with Quan while leaving the stage and backstage
Backlash against Robert Downey Jr for allegedly overlooking Ke Huy Quan during Oscars victory
Robert Downey Jr is facing criticism following his win at the 96th Academy Awards, with many accusing him of displaying arrogance and overlooking former presenter Ke Huy Quan during his victory moment.
Social media erupted with disapproval as users pointed out what they perceived as a lack of respect from Downey Jr towards Quan.
One user expressed their disappointment, stating, "How arrogant. He completely ignored Ke," while another commented, "The way he completely ignored Ke was just... wow. No respect for him."
The way he completely ignored Ke was just... wow. No respect for him.
— 𝘈𝘺𝘢 (@ayathefoodie) March 11, 2024
Others argued that while Downey Jr may have been overwhelmed, it is customary to acknowledge and thank the presenter before accepting the trophy.
One user observed, "While some may argue that he was overwhelmed, it's still customary to shake hands and hug the presenter first before accepting the trophy. RDJ seemed to be rushing to greet the white host in the back after quickly grabbing a drink from the waiter. I am so frustrated watching this."
While some may argue that he was overwhelmed, it's still customary to shake hands and hug the presenter first before accepting the trophy. RDJ seemed to be rushing to greet the white host in the back after quickly grabbing a drink from the waiter. I am so frustrated watching this
— べにぼたん (@RPeony) March 11, 2024
Critics also accused Downey Jr of displaying arrogant behavior.
"How arrogant of him. Treating the presenter like a waiter or a servant," another said.
How arrogant of him.
— KenjiMatsuda1975 (@KMatsuda1975) March 11, 2024
Treating the presenter like a waiter or a servant.
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