Humble brag or tone-deaf? Ariana Grande's ‘Botox and Juvederm’ joke sparks backlash at the Palm Springs Film Festival

Ariana Grande absolutely stole the show at the 36th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards on January 3. “I've been performing since I was a child, so I never thought at the age of 31 I would be hearing the words ‘rising star’ again, so I wanted to start by thanking my two friends: Botox and Juvederm.” The room erupted in laughter as Ariana added, “I thought I'd be hearing ‘slightly withering star’ or ‘drooping star’ by now, so thank you!” Netizens react While Ariana was refreshingly candid while accepting the award, many netizens did not feel this way, further criticising her remarks and labelling them tone-deaf as well as ageist. She hides her prejudice under the guise of a sense of humor.” Another pointed out the irony, saying, “She literally posed with Nicole Kidman who is twice her age… so for her to make an ageist comment about herself is 👀.” Some found her words to be a humble brag disguised as a joke, with one user adding, “31 isn’t even f***ing old 🙄. “Didn’t she say in one of her videos addressing beauty standards that she stopped getting Botox 4-5 years ago?” Netizens commented on Reddit “….it really does feel like the beginning of a new chapter” As for the rest of the speech, Grande also gave a heartfelt nod to Wicked director Jon M. Chu, whom she called her “fearless leader,” and her brilliant co-star Cynthia Erivo, whom she referred to as her “brilliant sister.” Grande also dove into a bit of nostalgia, sharing how comedy was the foundation of her career. So it really does feel like the beginning of a new chapter.” The first of many awards, Grande is lighting up the season with her performance as Glinda the Good in Wicked: Part One; the star has also racked up nominations for Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards and more.