I’m a little torn on this one and I see both sides. While I understand it can be upsetting for a child not to be able to get a photo with someone they look up to.. I also know that celebrities deserve their off-time as well and if he would have taken that photo, he would’ve had to continue to take others.
Anthony Mackie has sparked a debate after he turned down a young fan’s request for a picture with him. The actor became a trending topic on social media on Monday after he declined a woman’s request for a photo with her grandson. In a since-deleted video, a woman approached Anthony, asking if he could take a photo with her grandson, to which ‘Captain America’ star politely declined. Seemingly wanting to clarify on why he said no, the woman asked again, “Would you please take a picture with my grandson?”
But he stood firm on his stance and replied, “I cannot take a picture.” When the woman said, “So, you can not and you will not,” he simply replied, “Absolutely not.” After the footage gained a lot of attention online, the boy’s mother, who is identified as Aundra, explained via her Instagram Stories, “No one ever believes when I say the new black Captain America (Anthony Mackey) does not take pictures with kids. Little black boys who look up to him in New Orleans.”
She added, “Don’t get me wrong. I understand celebrities wanting their space etc. But kids? Every single time? Your a super hero sir In the MARVEL UNIVERSE.” Aundra said her mother’s friend took the young boy back to ask again for a picture. “Then my mom’s friend was like. I know he didn’t say no. Let me take him back over there. Which is the video y’all saw. My 11yr old son happened to be recording out of excitement. Imagine your hero, from New Orleans also. Doing that,” she recounted.
Aundra seemingly isn’t the only person who has had an ill experience while meeting Anthony. After she spoke out, a few former fans of the actor sent DMs claiming they had similar interactions.
The claims have since prompted a discussion about celebrity boundaries and privacy. Surprisingly, many sided with Anthony in this situation. Take a look at some of the reactions for yourself and let us know your thoughts.
Celebrities don't sign a contract when they get big that says they're obligated to take a picture with you. Go on press tours? Sure. Convention appearances? Sure. You come up to Anthony Mackie on a personal day, and ask him to indulge in your wants? He has every right to say no.
— Jaunty Wicked Sneer (@TrollanKojima) October 2, 2023
I see nothing wrong with Anthony Mackie declining that photo, cigar and a drink in his hand he was off lol.
— Iman Keilah (@imankeilah) October 2, 2023
From Simone Biles to Britney Spears to Anthony Mackie, the problem's common denominator is that yall feel entitled to these celebs. And they no longer have the right to say no to pictures or videos.
Yall are the problem, truly.
— Evil! (Which You Call Crime) ♑️ (@annsthewoman) October 2, 2023
no celebrity, including anthony mackie, is required to take a picture with you. he politely said no, and thanked the woman. maybe not the desired outcome, but it is what it is
— Candice Frederick (@ReelTalker) October 2, 2023
Chris Evans was just talking about largely abandoning Hollywood to wear cozy sweaters and sip pumpkin spice lattes and y'all are surprised Anthony Mackie doesn't want to sign autographs and take pics while he's out and about? Celebrities are not your 24/7 on demand entertainment!
— Brandon Lewis @ NYFF (@blewis1103) October 2, 2023
