Stephen A. Smith Dismisses Angry Critics Over Rihanna Vs. Beyonce Comments

BYErika MariePublished on January 25, 20231024 Views

2020 NBA All-Star - Celebrity Game Presented By Ruffles

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 14: Head coach Stephen A. Smith of Team Stephen A. looks on before the 2020 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game Presented By Ruffles at Wintrust Arena on February 14, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

He made his preference clear and addressed allegations that he was just pitting two Black women against one another.

After voicing his opinion about this year's Super Bowl halftime show, Stephen A. Smith is once again talking about Rihanna and Beyoncé. Recently, Smith incurred the wrath of Rihanna's fans when he visited Sherri and compared the Fenty star to Bey.

"Ladies and gentlemen, she's a lot of things," Smith said as he referenced Rihanna. "She's spectacular, actually. And congratulations on new mamahood." He added, "There's one thing she's not: she ain't Beyoncé."

Read More: Stephen A. Smith Talks Halftime Show: Rihanna “Ain’t Beyoncé”

The backlash was swift, and Smith soon issued a public apology of sorts to Rihanna.

“I meant it as no disrespect to Rihanna. I know she’s phenomenal, and she’s my sister," he further shared. "Nothing but love for her, but Beyoncé is my sister, too.”

The public accused Smith of unnecessarily pitting the two stars—and their fanbases—against each other. He answered his critics while on The Breakfast Club.

"I think that Beyoncé might be the greatest female performer of all time," said Smith. "That's how I feel about her."

Singers Beyonce (L) and Rihanna attend the Gucci and Roc Nation Pre-GRAMMY brunch held at Soho House on February 12, 2011 in West Hollywood, California.

Read More: Stephen A. Smith Clarifies Opinion On Beyoncé & Rihanna

"I think Rihanna's fantastic. Now, you agree, fine. You disagree? Fine. How we get to the point, 'Why he gotta pit two Black women...' Really?! I just can't be a fan of both? But I prefer Beyoncé over Rihanna. That's a crime! I didn't know that."

Charlamagne Tha God brought up Smith previously getting into trouble for comparing Ayesha Curry and Savannah James. The ladies are the wives of NBA stars Steph Curry and LeBron James, respectively.

Smith had an answer for that, as well. Check out what he had to say in the clip above.

About The Author

Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.

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