A red carpet comment about Chase Infiniti’s hairstyle at the 2026 Academy Awards is sparking conversation online.
During Oscars coverage on E! News, a reporter described the One Battle After Another star’s braided hairstyle as looking “almost like undone,” prompting debate across social media about how Black hairstyles are often interpreted in mainstream media.
Infiniti, who appeared on the red carpet in a custom lilac gown by Louis Vuitton, wore a style that many viewers quickly recognized as a popular protective style: boho knotless braids, done by celebrity hairstylist Coree Moreno.
While discussing Infiniti’s look during the broadcast, the reporter praised the way her hair complemented the texture of the dress.
“Let’s think about this awesome almost like undone hair with the done dress. Actually, it’s mirroring the ruffles on the dress, that beautiful hair,” the commentator said on-air, according to clips circulating online.
The moment quickly sparked reactions online, with many social media users drawing comparisons to a well-known Oscars controversy from 2015 involving Zendaya.
During that red carpet coverage, former E! News host Giuliana Rancic faced backlash after making comments about Zendaya’s faux locs, saying they looked like they smelled of “patchouli oil or weed.” Zendaya later responded publicly, saying the remarks reflected harmful stereotypes about Black hair and culture.
More than a decade later, the conversation resurfaced as viewers debated the meaning behind the phrase “almost undone” and whether it reflected a misunderstanding of the style.
Some social media users questioned the wording, while others argued the reporter appeared to be complimenting the look and referencing the relaxed, textured aesthetic of Infiniti’s hairstyle.
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