Leslie Jones Sparks Fury with Marriage Comments
Former Saturday Night Live comedian Leslie Jones has faced a significant backlash online after making explosive remarks comparing the institution of marriage to legal slavery. The 58-year-old actress and comedian delivered these controversial statements during an interview with popular YouTuber Ziwe, which was broadcast on Tuesday.
Rejection of Traditional Wife Role
The mostly satirical conversation took a serious turn when Jones was questioned about whether she would ever consider becoming a 'tradwife.' She explicitly and forcefully rejected the idea, stating, 'Absolutely f*****g not.' Jones elaborated by saying, 'Because that's not who I am. And my daddy didn't raise me like that.'
A tradwife, or traditional wife, refers to a woman who adopts the role of a housewife, reminiscent of practices from the 1950s and 1960s, rather than pursuing a career. Proponents of this movement argue it involves embracing traditional gender roles within a relationship.
Jones reinforced her father's influence, noting, 'My dad used to literally say that to me. I didn't raise you to be somebody's wife.' She further observed that many of the married couples she knows have since divorced, setting the stage for her more incendiary comments.
Marriage as Legalized Slavery
Building on her earlier points, Jones asserted, 'I think marriage is legalized slavery.' When Ziwe expressed surprise and asked for confirmation, Jones doubled down, replying, 'Yes, I do.' Ziwe then invited her to elaborate, noting that she views slavery and marriage as entirely distinct concepts.
Jones responded emphatically, 'Absolutely not. I don't know how you don't. Especially if he's expecting you to be a trad wife, it might as well pull out a whip and a chain.' This stark analogy drew immediate attention and controversy.
Direct Advice to Young Women
Surprised by Jones's answer, Ziwe asked her to address young women who might be watching and considering marriage. Jones looked directly into the camera and said, with a smile, 'Don't.' She concluded by emphasizing her disbelief in marriage, stating it is not beneficial for women and that she would never marry herself.
Jones also expressed disappointment in men during the interview, claiming, 'they're not stepping up to the plate.' She added, 'While we sat and grew and got our sh-- together, they sat on the couch and played their Sega Genesis.'
Online Backlash and Defence of Marriage
Her comments provoked outrage among users online, who took to social media platforms to defend the institution of marriage. One user wrote, 'I actually pity her. Service to your spouse (on both sides) is one of the great gifts of life. If it feels like slavery, then I don't think you've ever been in love.'
Another critic added, 'What a mental damage to a young woman of color. And she feels so good and fine sharing such an illness with innocent fans. Dark days of mental health.' A third comment read, 'Marriage is a blessing with the right person. Having a family is the best way to find happiness in life. Reject these ugly leftists who can't get married or stay married because they're bats**t insane, fat, and ugly.'
Background on Leslie Jones
Leslie Jones joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 2014 and departed after five years in 2019. Her career in comedy and acting has been marked by bold and often provocative statements, but this recent interview has sparked one of her most heated public debates to date.
