Strike a pose ... Little did Scarlett Johansson know she was about to become the centre of the Oscars’ most meme-worthy photobomb. Source: Getty Images
POOR old John Travolta can’t seem to cop a break at the Oscars these days.
It’s been 20 years since the Pulp Fiction star attended Hollywood’s night of nights as an actual nominee. These days, he seems unfortunately consigned to the role of reliable cringe inducer.
But someone’s finally thrown him a bone.
After what we presume is a full four days of Travolta texting her with requests to clear up the situation, Scarlett Johansson has leapt to his defence to explain the red carpet photo that spawned a million memes.
The Oscars’ gift to us all this year ... Travolta’s totally not awkward embrace on the red carpet. Source: Reddit
Johansson called Travolta “a class act” and denounced the image of the two on the Academy Awards red carpet as “an unfortunate still-frame” that doesn’t reflect a “totally sweet and totally welcome” encounter.
In an exclusive statement to The Associated Press, Johansson said “there is nothing strange, creepy or inappropriate about John Travolta.”
‘Oh hi, John.’ Source: AFP
‘What a totally sweet and welcome embrace that was.’ Source: AFP
Travolta greeted Johansson at the Oscars with a kiss and his arm around her waist. The photo has since been turned into an internet meme, adding to an impression furthered by Travolta’s touching of Idina Menzel’s face while presenting at the Los Angeles ceremony.
OSCARS 2015: Highlights and lowlights from the Academy Awards
Round two ... As if to give proof of their friendship, the duo hugged it out again backstage later on. Source: Getty Images
“The image that is circulating is an unfortunate still-frame from a live-action encounter that was very sweet and totally welcome,” said Johansson. “That still photo does not reflect what preceded and followed if you see the moment live. Yet another way we are misguided, misinformed and sensationalised by the 24-hour news cycle.
“I haven’t seen John in some years and it is always a pleasure to be greeted by him.”
Old buds ... Travolta and Johansson shared the screen in the actually not bad 2004 drama, A Love Song for Bobby Long. Source: AP
Johansson and Travolta co-starred in the 2004 drama A Love Song for Bobby Long.
