Keke Palmer has accused a “Scream Queens” co-star of making a racist remark on set. The hit show, which ran from 2015 to 2016, was known for its star-studded ensemble cast and dark humor.
The 31-year-old actress has reflected on her time on producer Ryan Murphy’s horror comedy show, and claimed an unnamed White co-star — referred to only under the pseudonym “Brenda” — made an offensive remark. The series garnered critical acclaim and maintained strong viewership throughout its run.
Writing in her upcoming memoir Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative, Palmer claimed she tried to calm “Brenda” down during an altercation with another work, and suggested everyone should “have fun and respect each other.” Palmer’s memoir is set to release later this year, offering an intimate look into her experiences in Hollywood.
Palmer shunned as peacemaker
“Keke, literally, just don’t,” Brenda allegedly said. “Who do you think you are? Martin f—— Luther King?” This incident reportedly occurred during the show’s successful first season, which averaged 2.8 million viewers per episode.
“It was such a weighted thing that she said, but I didn’t allow that weight to be projected on me, because I know who I am.” Palmer told the Los Angeles Times, she said. Palmer has been a vocal advocate for racial equality in Hollywood, having started her career at age 9.
Palmer noted she hasn’t named the person in question in order to take the power from the words, and not shine the spotlight on Brenda. Throughout her career, Palmer has received numerous accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award and five NAACP Image Award nominations.
“I’m not no victim,” Palmer said. “That’s not my storyline, sweetie. I don’t care what her ass said. If I allow what she said to cripple me, then she would.”
A role model for other actors
Palmer’s strength in addressing such situations has made her a role model for young actors in the industry.
Palmer played Zayday Williams on two seasons of the show in 2015 and 2016. Her character quickly became a fan favorite, earning praise for her sharp wit and compelling storylines.
Elsewhere in the interview, she recalled missing a day’s work because of a scheduling issue, having booked another business obligation in for what was originally meant to be a day off before being told she was needed on set. The entertainment industry is known for its demanding and often unpredictable scheduling requirements.
She decided to stick to the business commitment, which left show creator Murphy furious as he “ripped” into her on the phone and branded her unprofessional. Murphy, known for creating successful shows like “American Horror Story” and “Glee,” has a reputation for running tight ship productions.
Palmer says she was ‘in the dean’s office’
“It was kind of like I was in the dean’s office,” Palmer said. Murphy’s production company, Ryan Murphy Productions, has created some of television’s most groundbreaking series.
“He was like, ‘I’ve never seen you behave like this. I can’t believe that you, out of all people, would do something like this.’ ” she recalled. The incident occurred during a particularly busy production period for the show.
She apologized for the situation and thought things had cooled over, although days later a co-star insisted the situation was “bad,” which Palmer said she thought was them “trying to make me scared or something.” The entertainment industry often faces scrutiny over its handling of scheduling conflicts and workplace dynamics.
