At the 2025 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, an uncomfortable red carpet interview between host Lilly Singh and legendary actress Jane Fonda sparked widespread criticism. The tense exchange, marked by short responses and visible frustration, left viewers cringing and took over social media discussions.
The Interview
Jane Fonda, 87, attended the SAG Awards to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring her decades-long contribution to the entertainment industry. Lilly Singh, hosting the red carpet event for Netflix, caught up with the veteran actress for a quick interview, which soon turned awkward.
Singh started the conversation with typical questions about Fonda’s attire, complimenting her custom Armani gown. However, when she asked the actress about advice for young actors, things took an unexpected turn. Fonda, appearing visibly unenthusiastic, responded with minimal engagement. When Singh attempted to paraphrase her words, Fonda firmly corrected her, stating, “I never said that.” She then doubled down, adding, “Those were your words, not mine.”
Viewer Reactions
The uncomfortable nature of the interview did not go unnoticed by the audience. Social media quickly flooded with reactions, with many describing the moment as cringe-worthy and difficult to watch.
One viewer wrote, “Was anyone else EXTREMELY UNCOMFORTABLE when Jane Fonda was being interviewed by Lilly Singh? Jane looked like she wanted to be anywhere else.”
Another comment read, “That Lilly Singh and Jane Fonda interaction was incredibly awkward. I had to look away!”
Some users went as far as suggesting Netflix should reconsider its red carpet hosts, claiming Singh’s interviewing style came off as overly enthusiastic and out of sync with Fonda’s composed demeanor.
Expert Analysis
Body language experts analyzing the interview noted that Fonda’s restrained posture and tight grip on her microphone suggested deliberate withdrawal. Despite being honored with a major award, she appeared uninterested in engaging in an in-depth conversation, further amplifying the uncomfortable atmosphere.
Context and Impact
The SAG Awards, held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, are one of the biggest nights for Hollywood actors, celebrating outstanding performances in film and television. Fonda’s Lifetime Achievement Award was a key highlight, recognizing her vast influence in the industry.
For Lilly Singh, the moment added to the ongoing conversation about the challenges of live interviews, where unscripted interactions can sometimes lead to uncomfortable encounters. The backlash also raises questions about the importance of chemistry between interviewers and their subjects, especially on high-profile red carpets.
