Actress Gabourey Sidibe recently criticized Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Kathy Hilton for a 2022 television comment. Hilton appeared to misidentify singer Lizzo as “Precious,” a name strongly associated with Sidibe’s breakout role in the 2009 film Precious.
Sidibe discussed the incident on the One54 Africa podcast, bringing renewed attention to the moment from Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. She described the experience as “strange,” noting she had previously met Hilton at her home for a professional meeting.
‘Tinged With Racism,’ Sidibe Says
Sidibe stated that Hilton’s comment reflects a larger issue of misidentification. “I’ve been confused for many Black plus-size women,” she said, adding that these experiences are “always weird and sometimes it feels tinged with racism.”
During the original 2022 segment, Hilton, 66, was shown a photo of Lizzo and responded, “Precious?” She then explained, “That’s what I call her. Her nickname’s Precious to me.” Hilton initially attributed the mistake to poor eyesight and the format of the game, later saying she felt “terrible” and meant no harm.
Sidibe, 42, emphasized that she has never met Lizzo and that the two women have different careers. She described being used as a stand-in for another person as “dehumanizing.”
A Larger Conversation on Recognition
The original comment sparked criticism, with social media users pointing out a pattern of plus-size Black women being seen as interchangeable. TV personality Kalen Allen tweeted in 2022 that the moment was hurtful, stating, “Lizzo minds her own business but all people do is make her a joke.”
Sidibe’s comments arrive as she prepares for the premiere of her directorial debut, a Lifetime film titled Be Happy. She stated, “I want people to see me for who I am and what I do,” and “not for some tired stereotype.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Gabourey Sidibe to speak out?
Sidibe discussed the incident during a recent episode of the One54 Africa podcast, drawing fresh attention to the 2022 exchange with Kathy Hilton.
What was Kathy Hilton’s initial response to the criticism?
At the time, Hilton defended her guess by citing poor eyesight and the game’s format. She later said she felt “terrible” about the confusion and insisted she meant no harm.
Has Gabourey Sidibe met Lizzo?
Sidibe stated she has never met Lizzo and that the two women work in different professions.
How can we move beyond reducing individuals to stereotypes?
