Zendaya’s Absence at the 2025 Oscars and the Lasting Impact of a Controversial Red Carpet Moment
Zendaya, a name synonymous with impeccable style and captivating performances, was noticeably absent from the 2025 Oscars red carpet. The absence of the A-list actress, consistently lauded as one of Hollywood’s best-dressed, sparked disappointment and curiosity among fashion enthusiasts and moviegoers alike. While her role in the critically acclaimed film "Challengers" failed to garner any nominations this year, the lack of Zendaya’s presence felt particularly poignant, especially considering the buzz surrounding "Dune: Part Two," where she stars alongside Timothée Chalamet. The sci-fi epic is a strong contender in several categories, including Best Picture, further highlighting the void left by her non-appearance.
The annual Academy Awards ceremony is not just a celebration of cinematic achievements; it’s also a high-stakes fashion event, where stars showcase their sartorial choices, setting trends and influencing the industry. Zendaya has consistently delivered memorable red carpet moments throughout her career, making her absence all the more keenly felt.
Last year, the actress turned heads while presenting the Best Cinematography award to "Oppenheimer," dazzling in an exquisite Armani Privé gown. Her fashion choices are always carefully considered, reflecting her evolving style and cementing her status as a red carpet icon. But Zendaya’s history with the Oscars extends beyond recent appearances. Her debut at the prestigious event dates back to 2015, a night that, while marking her entry into the Hollywood elite, was also marred by a racially insensitive incident that ultimately had a profound and far-reaching impact.
In 2015, Zendaya graced the Oscars red carpet in a stunning white Vivienne Westwood gown, her long locs perfectly complementing her look. The ensemble was a celebration of her natural beauty and a bold statement about embracing cultural heritage. However, the celebration was short-lived. "Fashion Police" host Giuliana Rancic made a racially offensive remark about Zendaya’s hair, stating that the actress probably "smells like patchouli oil or weed."
Rancic’s comments ignited immediate and widespread outrage. The remark was deemed deeply insensitive and perpetuated harmful stereotypes about Black hair and culture. The backlash was swift and forceful, leading to a public outcry against Rancic’s words and the platform that allowed them to be aired.
Zendaya responded to the controversy with grace and eloquence. She addressed the issue directly, calling Rancic’s comments "disrespectful" and highlighting the importance of celebrating diversity and challenging prejudiced attitudes. Her articulate and measured response resonated with many, further solidifying her position as a role model and advocate for social justice.
The incident became a turning point in the conversation about representation, cultural appropriation, and the harmful impact of biased commentary. It forced a critical examination of the language used to describe and judge Black hair, highlighting the need for greater sensitivity and understanding.
Nearly a decade later, the impact of that red carpet moment continues to be felt. At a Teen Vogue panel event in 2024, Zendaya’s longtime stylist, Law Roach, reflected on the incident, revealing its surprising and significant consequences. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Roach stated that the controversy surrounding Rancic’s comments catalyzed progressive conversations about Black hair and its acceptance in various settings.
"That one instance went on to actually change the way Black people’s hair was accepted in schools and the workplace," Roach said. "So although we did not set out to make this big statement, because of the events that happened, The Crown Act was actually birthed from that incident."
The Crown Act, a law that prohibits discrimination based on hair texture and protective styles such as braids, locs, and twists, has been enacted in several states across the United States. The legislation aims to protect individuals from facing prejudice and discrimination in employment, housing, and education due to their natural hairstyles.
The fact that the incident involving Zendaya and Giuliana Rancic played a role in the genesis of The Crown Act speaks volumes about the power of individual moments to spark broader social change. What began as a seemingly isolated incident on a red carpet ultimately led to a nationwide movement for equality and acceptance.
Since stepping onto the Hollywood scene, Zendaya’s ensembles have consistently been a highlight of the red carpet experience. From her elegant gowns to her avant-garde looks, she has consistently demonstrated her fashion sense and fearlessly expresses her personal style.
The absence of such a prominent figure from the 2025 Oscars red carpet certainly left a void. While the reasons for her absence remain undisclosed, it’s impossible to forget the impact Zendaya has had on the event in the past, both through her stunning fashion choices and her role in sparking meaningful conversations about inclusivity and social justice. Though she was not there to be seen this year, her impact still remains. We can only look forward to her inevitable return to the Oscars red carpet, where she will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences with her style and grace.
In conclusion, Zendaya’s absence at the 2025 Oscars was a missed opportunity for the fashion world and her fans alike. Her history with the event, particularly the controversial incident in 2015, serves as a reminder of the importance of representation, cultural sensitivity, and the power of individual voices to drive positive change. While we may not have seen her on the red carpet this year, her lasting impact on the Oscars and the broader cultural landscape remains undeniable.
(Information gathered and reported by Taylor Ardrey, a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at [email protected].)
