A dispute during Paris Fashion Week sparked a conversation about celebrity hierarchy after media personality Charlamagne tha God publicly defended Rihanna. The exchange followed critical remarks by fashion commentator EJ Johnson regarding the pop star and billionaire mogul’s arrival time at a major runway presentation.
The Paris Fashion Week Incident
The tension began when EJ Johnson-known for appearing on Rich Kids of Beverly Hills and as the son of NBA legend Magic Johnson-published a vlog detailing experiences at Paris Fashion Week. While reviewing the Dior fashion show, Johnson praised the collection but expressed frustration over a significant delay.
According to Johnson, the presentation started an hour behind schedule specifically because of Rihanna’s tardiness. In the viral video clip, Johnson remarked, “It did start an hour late because Rihanna was late, and you know, like, we didn’t care to wait for her.” The comment quickly circulated online, turning a scheduling complaint into a public debate about industry standards and celebrity status.
Charlamagne tha God Weighs In
During an episode of The Brilliant Idiots podcast co-hosted with Andrew Schulz, Charlamagne tha God addressed the incident directly. While expressing personal affection for Johnson, the radio personality argued that criticizing certain elite entertainers crosses a distinct line.
“EJ, now EJ, you know I love you, but you got to know your limitations,” Charlamagne stated on the podcast. “There’s certain thrones you can’t throw rocks at, EJ, and Rihanna’s one of them.”
Charlamagne framed popular culture and fashion as an ecosystem with strict tiers of influence. He emphasized Rihanna’s untouchable standing as a global music icon, a billionaire businesswoman behind brands like Fenty Beauty, and a primary muse and global ambassador for luxury houses like Dior.
“There’s levels to this queen stuff,” Charlamagne added. “Now listen, there’s a lot of queens EJ stepping on. Like I like 99% of queens EJ stepping on. But it’s that 1% that EJ just not going to ever be able to touch. Rihanna’s one of them. Beyoncé’s one of them.”
Rihanna’s Response and Fan Reactions
Following the podcast and the widespread distribution of Johnson’s vlog, Rihanna offered a minimal yet pointed reaction online. When a video shared by celebrity outlet The Hollywood Fix showed Johnson standing outside a Paris hotel while trying to gain entry past security, Rihanna left a single-word comment under the clip: “Damn.”
The digital exchange divided observers and galvanized Rihanna’s devoted fanbase, known as the “Navy,” who rushed to defend the artist. Supporters pointed out that major fashion houses frequently adjust schedules to accommodate primary guests of Rihanna’s stature, while critics continued to debate the boundaries of unfiltered fashion commentary.
EJ Johnson’s History of Fashion Critiques
The friction between Johnson and high-profile stars is not entirely new. Earlier in the year, Johnson drew attention for critiques of celebrity ensembles at the Met Gala, describing portions of the red carpet as a “graveyard” and labeling multiple high-end looks as underwhelming. Those remarks also targeted major figures, including Beyoncé and Kim Kardashian, establishing a pattern of direct commentary from the reality star regarding top-tier celebrity styling.
As Paris Fashion Week concluded, the public exchange highlighted ongoing tensions between traditional red-carpet participants, independent fashion commentators, and the ultra-exclusive tier of global superstars who dictate modern luxury culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did EJ Johnson criticize Rihanna during Paris Fashion Week?
EJ Johnson criticized Rihanna in a vlog after claiming that the Dior fashion show was delayed by an hour because of the singer’s late arrival, stating that attendees did not care to wait for her.
What did Charlamagne tha God say in response?
During The Brilliant Idiots podcast, Charlamagne tha God defended Rihanna, telling Johnson to “know your limitations” and stating that “there’s levels to this queen stuff” where certain major stars are untouchable.
How did Rihanna respond to EJ Johnson?
Rihanna responded to a viral video showing Johnson struggling to enter a Paris hotel by leaving a single-word comment underneath the footage: “Damn.”
What is EJ Johnson’s background?
EJ Johnson is a fashion personality and social media figure who rose to fame on the E! reality series Rich Kids of Beverly Hills. He is also the son of NBA icon Magic Johnson.
Why are high-fashion shows sometimes delayed for Rihanna?
Industry insiders and supporters note that top luxury brands often adjust their schedules for Rihanna due to her massive cultural influence, billionaire status, and long-standing partnership as a primary muse and ambassador for houses like Dior.
