Former “Real Housewives of New York” star Jill Zarin has been removed from an upcoming reunion series after posting a video on social media with controversial commentary about Subpar Bunny’s Super Bowl LX halftime performance.
Series Cancellation
E!’s “The Golden Life” will no longer include Zarin in its cast, according to a statement released Tuesday by series producer Blink49 Studios. The series, set to start filming in the spring, would have followed Zarin alongside Kelly Bensimon, Luann de Lesseps, Ramona Singer, and Sonja Morgan in South Florida. Blink49 Studios cited Zarin’s “recent public comments” as the reason for her removal, stating the studio remains “committed to delivering the series in line with our company standards and values.”
A representative for Zarin did not immediately respond to requests for comment. However, Zarin defended herself in a statement to InTouch, claiming producers “didn’t even give me a chance.” She stated she removed the video “right away,” adding, “People create mistakes. I’m human.”
Controversial Commentary
Zarin’s comments followed Grammy winner Bad Bunny’s performance on Sunday, which the Los Angeles Times described as a “historic performance” intended to celebrate the Latin community. Zarin described the performance as “the worst halftime show ever” in a now-deleted Instagram video that was widely circulated on social media. She stated that, given the Super Bowl’s celebration of 250 years since the founding of the United States, she “didn’t feel it was appropriate to have it in Spanish.”
Zarin also criticized Bad Bunny’s dance moves as “inappropriate,” claiming he was grabbing his groin “every five seconds.” She admitted she does not speak Spanish and expressed a preference for understanding the lyrics. She further stated the performance “looked like a political statement because there were literally no white people in the entire thing.”
Zarin also questioned the NFL’s motives, suggesting they “sold out” and that the performance was related to an “ICE thing,” referencing the federal immigration enforcement branch. Bad Bunny had previously called out the same branch at the 68th Grammy Awards a week prior, while accepting the prize for album of the year.
Zarin concluded her video with commentary on Lady Gaga’s appearance, claiming she had undergone a facelift and required Google to be identified.
Frequently Asked Questions
What series has Jill Zarin been removed from?
Jill Zarin has been removed from E!’s “The Golden Life,” a reunion series featuring former cast members of “The Real Housewives of New York.”
What was Jill Zarin’s reaction to Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance?
Zarin described Bad Bunny’s performance as “the worst halftime show ever” and criticized its language, choreography, and perceived political undertones.
Did Jill Zarin respond to the backlash following her comments?
Zarin stated that she removed the video “right away” and defended herself by saying, “People make mistakes. I’m human.”
As the entertainment industry continues to navigate issues of representation and cultural sensitivity, will this incident prompt further reflection on the responsibilities of public figures and the potential impact of their words?