Associated Press Apologizes After Cutting Off Babyface's Grammy Red Carpet Interview

Associated Press Apologizes After Cutting Off Babyface's Grammy Red Carpet Interview

By Marcus Delano Thompson

February 5, 2025 at 01:14 AM

The Associated Press faced criticism after abruptly ending an interview with legendary producer Babyface to chase after singer Chappell Roan during Grammy red carpet coverage.

Three people on red carpet

Three people on red carpet

During AP's live coverage, reporters Leslie Ambriz and Krysta Fauria were discussing genre-blending trends with Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds when Fauria suddenly began calling out to Chappell Roan. Babyface graciously handed back the microphone, allowing the reporters to pursue their new target.

The incident sparked immediate backlash on social media, with prominent figures including Dionne Warwick and Khloé Kardashian condemning the disrespectful treatment of the music industry veteran. Warwick pointedly shared the definition of "decorum" while tagging AP in her post.

Babyface's representative, Ernest Dukes, released a gracious statement focusing on the positive aspects of the evening: "The best part of the night was reconnecting with old friends, meeting new artists, and feeling all the love in the room. That's what I'll remember. Music is bigger than any one moment."

The Associated Press issued an apology on X/Twitter, stating they were "deeply sorry" for cutting the interview short and had apologized to Babyface through his representative. Reporter Krysta Fauria also personally apologized, acknowledging the red carpet commotion but emphasizing her respect for Babyface's legacy.

Social media users criticized the AP for employing "two fans instead of two reporters," highlighting the irony of interrupting Babyface during a discussion about genre-blending music - an area where he has been a pioneering force.

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