Hugh Grant Accused of Being ‘Rude’ to Oscars Interviewer, But He Was Actually Referencing a Classic Christian Book

Hugh Grant Accused of Being ‘Rude’ to Oscars Interviewer, But He Was Actually Referencing a Classic Christian Book

Hugh Grant has been making headlines recently for allegedly being “rude” to an Oscars interviewer, but it turns out there was a deeper meaning behind his words. The British actor was asked about his thoughts on the ceremony being held in the 900-seat Union Station in Los Angeles, instead of the iconic Dolby Theatre, and responded with a reference to a classic Christian book.

Grant stated, “It’s like having a nice sent of underwear and then being asked to wear them on your head because they’ll be more special. It’s a bit of a shame really.” The comment was immediately criticized by some as being crass and arrogant. However, Grant’s reference was actually to C.S. Lewis’ famous book “Mere Christianity” and his analogy of how people often misuse something that is meant for a specific purpose.

In the book, Lewis writes, “A thing that is not meant to make a man smell stronger can be used to make him smell stronger. You can misuse things, but you cannot use them wrongly if you understand their proper purpose.” Grant’s reference was therefore not meant to be rude, but to point out that the unique beauty of the Dolby Theatre is being ignored in favor of a less fitting venue.

While some may argue that Grant should have explained the reference in the interview, it is not uncommon for people to make subtle references that only those who have read or studied a particular book or subject would understand. Moreover, it is not the responsibility of the general public to understand every obscure reference that celebrities make in interviews.

Grant has continued to receive criticism for his alleged rudeness, but it is important to recognize that sometimes a deeper meaning can be behind seemingly thoughtless comments. In this case, Grant was referencing a classic Christian book that has been influential to many readers, and it was not his intention to be disrespectful. Perhaps we should take this as a reminder to not always jump to conclusions and to seek understanding instead of just passing judgment.