In recent events on the CBS program “The Talk,” co-host Sharon Osbourne defended her “friend” who resigned after making derogatory remarks about Meghan Markle. In a follow-up episode, co-host Sheryl Underwood confronted Osbourne regarding her defense of these comments, which many interpret as racist. What followed was a clear display of white fragility from Osbourne, who felt attacked rather than accountable. Following this incident, the show paused to review her conduct.
Underwood asked, “What would you say to people who may feel that while you’re standing by your friend, it appears you gave validation or safe haven to something that he has uttered that is racist, even if you don’t agree?” Osbourne immediately shifted into a defensive posture, claiming, “I feel even like I’m about to be put in the electric chair because I have a friend who many people think is a racist so that makes me a racist.”
In today’s world, it’s inadequate for individuals, particularly white women, to simply claim they are not racist. Mere disagreement with a racist viewpoint isn’t sufficient. It’s vital to actively engage with friends exhibiting racist behavior and discuss why it is unacceptable. If the conversation fails to initiate change, it’s essential to distance yourself from their views. Supporting someone who openly expresses racist sentiments can lead others to perceive you as complicit.
Osbourne’s reaction exemplifies classic white fragility. Instead of grasping why her defense of Morgan could be seen as supportive of racism, she seemed to demand validation of her perspective. She asked Underwood for proof of Morgan’s racist behavior, as if trying to argue that racism is subjective.
At one point, Osbourne admonished Underwood not to cry, demanding, “I will ask you again Sheryl… educate me, tell me when you have heard me say racist things!” This demand for education from a Black woman, coupled with her dismissiveness of Underwood’s feelings, is troubling. Sharon Osbourne’s emotional state should not eclipse the experiences of others, particularly when she has engaged in harmful rhetoric.
It’s crucial to highlight that Black women are not obligated to explain or justify racism to white women. If Osbourne was genuinely interested in understanding, she could have sought information independently instead of placing that burden on Underwood.
Despite Underwood’s attempts to clarify her stance, Osbourne continued to play the victim, claiming in a later interview that she felt like she was “in front of a firing squad.” As more allegations against Osbourne surfaced, including accusations from former co-host Holly Robinson Peete about her using derogatory language, her history of problematic behavior became increasingly evident.
After reflecting on her actions, Osbourne released an apology, claiming deep respect for the Black community while simultaneously framing herself as a victim of circumstance. She stated, “I panicked, felt blindsided, got defensive and allowed my fear of being accused of being racist take over.”
Whether Osbourne will genuinely learn from this experience remains to be seen, but skepticism is warranted.
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Summary:
Sharon Osbourne’s recent defense of Piers Morgan’s racist comments on “The Talk” highlighted her fragility and unwillingness to engage in meaningful conversations about racism. Her behavior, characterized by demands for validation and a lack of accountability, has drawn criticism and further allegations of past racist remarks. While she issued an apology, questions remain regarding her true understanding of the issues at hand.