Keke Palmer Faces Backlash Over Jonathan Majors Interview

Keke Palmer may be the “Internet’s Favorite Cousin” but it looks like there’s about to be some familial in-fighting thanks to a rumored new interview with Jonathan Majors. And folks on social media are taking her to task about it!

via: Hot 97

Keke Palmer is facing major backlash after reports surfaced that Jonathan Majors would be a guest on her podcast, Baby, This Is Keke Palmer. The speculation started when Pop Crave posted about the upcoming episode, though neither Palmer nor Majors officially confirmed it. Since the announcement came on April Fool’s Day, some questioned its legitimacy, but the episode later appeared on the podcast’s official page, seemingly confirming the news.

The reaction online was immediate and divided. Some fans didn’t see an issue with Majors appearing on the podcast, arguing that anyone who disapproved could simply ignore the episode. Others, however, were outraged, pointing to Majors’ recent conviction and questioning why Palmer, who has spoken about her own experiences with domestic violence, would offer him a platform. Critics also resurfaced past comments she made defending controversial figures, further fueling the backlash.

Social media erupted with heated debates, with many slamming Palmer for aligning herself with Majors. Some brought up Michael B. Jordan’s previous public support of the actor, questioning why celebrities continued to stand by him despite his legal troubles. Others referenced Palmer’s own past struggles, arguing that her decision was particularly disappointing given her history.

At the same time, some people defended her, pointing out that she had apologized for past comments and that the podcast often focuses on discussions around accountability and growth. They also noted that other public figures have been forgiven for their missteps, calling out inconsistencies in how people react to different situations.

On the other hand, many felt that Palmer was wrong to be platforming an abuser, cited her own experience with domestic violence from her ex-boyfriend Darius Jackson back in 2023, and questioned why she’d be OK with this. In an attempt to answer that question, people pointed out the fact that Palmer had previously made excuses for problematic men in the past and pointed to her 2018 interview on “The Breakfast Club” in which she defended R. Kelly and all his debauchery. In an ironic twist though, that interview was also the very same one in which she detailed she was “sexually intimidated” by Trey Songz years prior and made to feel very uncomfortable during a music video shoot that she didn’t consent to.

In taking all of this into consideration, the timelines were understandably blown up with opinions and criticism.

“First Michael B. Jordan coming forward to publicly support him now Keke Palmer, a whole domestic violence victim herself, lending her platform to Jonathan Majors, a man WITH A WHOLE ASS RECORD OF VIOLENCE ON WOMEN WHY ARE PEOPLE RALLYING BEHIND A FUCKING WOMAN ABUSER????????,” wrote one user on X/Twitter.

“keke your bd was treating you like a slots machine knocking your tokens out in the living room in 4k and you invite jonathan majors… a CONVICTED abuser…….” said another.

Added another, “Keke stupidly taking Jonathan Majors on her podcast only for her disgusting comments about R Kelly to resurface as a result. I hope people learn a lesson from this. Leave the abusers to hang, mind the business that pays you and keep it fucking pushing.”

“Trey songz trending bc keke is platforming jonathan majors. i wonder if she would do the same for him if he reached out tbh,” one other user questioned.

However, there were a few that came to the longtime actress’ defense.

“Do I agree with Keke Palmer having Jonathan Majors on her platform? No! But, pulling up a 6 year old interview when she was 25 & spoke positively on R. Kelly is wild; she apologized for it & didn’t know the details. Meanwhile, some of yall screaming free Tory Lanez today..” said one user.

“I see people mad at Keke about having Jonathan Majors on her show.. Y’all know the show is about accountability & moving forward…,” another user wrote.

As the debate continues to unfold, Palmer has yet to address the controversy, leaving fans waiting to see if she’ll respond to the criticism or move forward without comment.