In a show of solidarity and friendship, singer Ciara has taken a protective stance for her friend Serena Williams by disabling comments on a viral video that sparked unwarranted criticism of the tennis icon’s appearance. The video, intended to showcase the playful bond between the two stars, led to a wave of negative remarks about Williams’ looks — prompting Ciara to take action.
Unwanted attention on social media
The TikTok video in question captured Ciara and Williams sharing a light-hearted moment after a girl power event, which quickly turned sour as online commentators dissected Williams’ appearance. Despite the disabling of comments on the original post, the conversation continued across other social media platforms, with some users making harsh and unfounded judgments about Williams’ facial features.
Support for Serena Williams
Williams — who has faced scrutiny over her appearance in the past, including comments about her skin tone and makeup choices — has consistently affirmed her pride in her Black identity. The criticism reached a peak following her appearance at the Met Gala, where her choice of attire and makeup were met with disappointment by some observers.
However, not all feedback was negative. Ciara’s post from the same event drew praise for Williams, with fans celebrating the beauty of both women and recognizing them as “two beautiful Black queens.” This dichotomy of responses highlights the ongoing challenges Black women face in the public eye, where their appearance is often subjected to intense and unfair scrutiny.
Standing against anti-Blackness and transphobia
The issue transcends mere celebrity gossip, touching on deeper societal problems of anti-Blackness and transphobia. Critics have pointed out that the negative attention Williams receives for her features — such as her dark skin, hair texture and muscular build — is rooted in these pervasive prejudices.
As Williams and Ciara navigate the complexities of public life, their experiences underscore the importance of support and genuine friendship in the face of relentless public judgment. The solidarity shown by Ciara serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity, particularly within the Black community.
