Luann De Lesseps' Diana Ross Costume: Backlash & Apology - RHONY
Was it a tribute or a transgression? The controversy surrounding Luann de Lesseps' Diana Ross costume on the season premiere of The Real Housewives of New York sparked a heated debate, raising questions about cultural sensitivity and the boundaries of homage.
The Real Housewives franchise has always been known for its over-the-top personalities and dramatic moments, but sometimes, the line between entertainment and offense gets blurred. In the season 10 premiere of The Real Housewives of New York City, Luann de Lesseps, one of the show's original cast members, ignited a firestorm of criticism when she appeared at a Halloween party dressed as Diana Ross. The costume, which included darkened skin and a large afro wig, was immediately labeled by many as "blackface," a term laden with historical and cultural baggage.
The incident occurred during Dorinda Medley's Halloween party, a recurring event on the show. Luanns entrance as Diana Ross, complete with a flamboyant costume and apparent attempt to emulate the singers iconic look, was intended as a celebratory gesture. However, the execution of the tribute was widely criticized, with many viewers and critics pointing out the problematic nature of a white woman darkening her skin to portray a Black woman.
Following the backlash, de Lesseps quickly found herself in damage control mode, issuing public apologies and attempting to explain her intentions. She took to Twitter to address the accusations, stating, "I would like to clear the air, I love and respect Diana Ross, this was my tribute to her. I was showing my sincere admiration. I in no way altered my skin color and I did not mean to offend anyone." She reiterated these sentiments during a chat show appearance on Wednesday, expressing her horror at the negative reactions and insisting that she never intended to cause harm.
The incident brought to the forefront a broader conversation about cultural appropriation and the importance of understanding the historical context of certain actions. Blackface, which originated in minstrel shows in the 19th century, is a practice with a deeply troubling history, rooted in racism and the dehumanization of Black people. It was used to mock and stereotype Black individuals, perpetuating harmful caricatures and reinforcing negative biases.
De Lesseps's actions were met with a swift rebuke from various corners of the media and social media. Critics pointed out that, regardless of her intentions, the costume choice was tone-deaf and insensitive. They argued that even if she meant no harm, the visual representation was inherently offensive, given the history of blackface and its association with systemic racism.
The reaction wasn't uniform. Some defended de Lesseps, suggesting that she was simply attempting to pay homage to a musical icon and that the outrage was an overreaction. Others acknowledged her remorse and accepted her apology, while still maintaining that the costume was ill-advised.
Following her divorce from Tom D'Agostino, Luann was arrested on Christmas Eve 2017 for allegedly being under the influence and disorderly in Palm Beach, Florida. This event further amplified the controversies surrounding the "Real Housewives" star. The arrest, coupled with the subsequent fallout from the Halloween costume, underscored the challenges faced by public figures navigating a world increasingly conscious of social and cultural sensitivities.
While the issue was debated on Watch What Happens Live, the hostess admitted she was horrified by the backlash.
I never meant to hurt anybodys feelings. I love Diana Ross and I totally respect Diana Ross, she told host Andy Cohen.
I had bronzer on, that I wear normally, like the rest of my skin Im tan right now.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Luann de Lesseps |
| Profession | Reality Television Personality, Singer |
| Known For | "The Real Housewives of New York City" (RHONY), Singer |
| Date of Birth | May 17, 1965 |
| Age | 58 (as of November 13, 2023) |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Tom D'Agostino) |
| @countessluann | |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be $25 million |
| Controversy | Blackface accusations for Diana Ross costume, arrest for disorderly conduct |
The debate surrounding Luann de Lessepss Diana Ross costume is a microcosm of the larger discussions happening in society today about race, representation, and cultural sensitivity. While the incident may seem like a trivial matter to some, it serves as a reminder that even seemingly innocent actions can have unintended consequences and that its crucial for individuals, especially those in the public eye, to be mindful of the potential impact of their choices.
The episode itself highlighted a particular moment during the RHONY season 10 premiere that showcased the ongoing issues of cultural understanding and the impact of social media scrutiny. The event also sparked dialogue about the complexities of celebrity culture and how public figures navigate the fine line between self-expression and causing offense.
Luann de Lesseps's journey on The Real Housewives of New York has been nothing if not eventful. Her life has played out on television screens for years, her romantic relationships, her personal struggles, and, of course, her Halloween costume choices all becoming fodder for public discussion. The season 10 premiere, with its controversial Halloween costume incident, was also a testament to the evolving landscape of reality television and the critical roles played by social media and the court of public opinion.
The incident underscored the need for a more nuanced understanding of cultural sensitivities, but the story continues. The reactions to the costume and the ensuing conversation have proven the power of entertainment media to shape, reflect, and sometimes, challenge cultural norms.
The Real Housewives of New York City star apologized to fans for dressing up as Diana Ross for Halloween in the RHONY season 10 premiere.
The newly divorced Luann de Lesseps stepped out as Diana Ross on Wednesdays premiere of The Real Housewives of New York, marking her first appearance on the series following her summer split from Tom DAgostino after seven months of marriage.
On the season premiere of the real housewives of new york city, luann de lesseps showed up to a halloween party as diana ross, with noticeably darker skin. however, she seemed completely oblivious.
And in order to achieve this look as a white woman, lu slathered herself in bronzer and slapped on an afro wig at least three feet tall and
Real housewives star luann de lesseps apologizes for her diana ross costume which helped her feel liberated.
Real housewife luann de lesseps denies 'doing a blackface' for diana ross halloween costume.
The most interesting people make the best headlines. that cheeky line was a nod to de lesseps' december 2017
And then theres luann, in her diana ross costume.
While on watch what happens live, luann de lesseps admitted to host andy cohen that she was horrified by the backlash against her diana ross costume on the season premiere of real housewives of
