Anthony Anderson apologized Friday after a 2003 talk‑show clip resurfaced showing him making sexual remarks toward a 17‑year‑old Lindsay Lohan. In the six‑minute segment from The Sharon Osbourne Show, Anderson, then 33 and filling in as host, laughed that he “liked ’em young” after Lohan reminded him she was “illegal for people that are old,” and he jokingly claimed she had kissed him “with tongue”. The footage gained traction across TikTok and X this week, with users calling it “creepy” and “disturbing”.
Facing mounting criticism, the Black‑ish star issued a statement through his publicist insisting the exchange “was clearly intended as comedy” while conceding that the humor was “in poor taste” and affirming “utmost respect” for Lohan. A separate comment to People warned that suggestions of predatory intent were “potentially defamatory”.
The uproar revived discussion of earlier misconduct claims. Anderson was investigated in 2004 and 2018 on separate sexual‑assault allegations; prosecutors ultimately declined to press charges, but references to those cases resurfaced alongside the viral clip. One widely shared post framed the new backlash as evidence that “red flags were always there”.
Commentators noted the episode reflects a broader reassessment of vintage celebrity interviews in the social‑media era, where exchanges once dismissed as banter now draw intense scrutiny. Lohan, now 39 and gearing up for August’s Freakier Friday sequel, has not publicly addressed the controversy; friends say she avoids online drama to preserve her peace of mind.
The 2003 broadcast aired on December 16 while Lohan promoted the home release of Freaky Friday. During the interview, Anderson also asked what “gentlemen” would visit Lohan’s new Los Angeles apartment, prompting her to reiterate her under‑age status.
While some social‑media users accepted Anderson’s apology, others urged the Television Academy—which tapped him to emcee its milestone 75th Emmy ceremony—to reconsider future hosting duties.
