Foot in Mouth Syndrome

As a huge consumer of all things media, I watch a lot of video..and am consistently struck by how even a pro can lodge a foot in her mouth. 

Giuliana Rancic comes to mind as a recent inductee into the Off the Cuff Hall of Infamy. On Oscar night, Rancic, an entertainment reporter, made a comment about the hairstyle of actress, Zendaya. Rancic equated Zendaya's dreadlocks with the smell of "patchouli oil" and "weed." The comment  instantly struck a nerve as Twitter and the blogosphere called out Rancic for a remark that crossed the line. 

The carelessness of Rancic's original comment which perpetuated a damaging cliche and stereotype is a lesson for all of us....as is her tactic in dealing with the fallout in the new media climate.  Rancic helped diffuse the situation by addressing her target (Zendaya) directly with sincerity and humility on Twitter.

"Dear @Zendaya, I'm sorry I offended you and others. I was referring to a bohemian chic look. Had NOTHING to do with race and NEVER would!!!" 

Zendaya accepted the apology with a gracious measured response on Instagram.  

"Giuliana, I appreciate your apology and I'm glad it was a learning experience for you and for your network." 

Zendaya could have fanned the flames. Instead, she took the high road...and if she stays there, she may just stay out of the Hall of Infamy and end up with a star on Hollywood Boulevard.