In many ways, the Oscars went as expected: “Dune” swept up the most awards. Jessica Chastain won best actress. And hosts Wanda Sykes, Amy Schumer, and Regina Hall brought the energy. But at one point presenter Chris Rock made a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s hair, comparing it to “GI Jane.” It’s worth noting: Smith suffers from alopecia, an autoimmune disease that can lead to hair loss. In response to the comment, husband Will Smith walked onstage and hit Chris Rock in the face.
Whoa.
Right. The incident had some questioning whether the moment was staged. And whether Smith would face charges (so far: no). Smith went on to win best actor for his role in “King Richard.” He used the moment to apologize to the Academy and to the other nominees. But not to Chris Rock. He also seemed to be defending his actions, saying, “love will make you do crazy things.” One thing we do know: the incident not only overshadowed his win, but some of the other moments of the night.
Like what?
“CODA” won best picture — a big win for deaf representation in film. And the first time a streaming service (hi, Apple) took top prize. Ariana DeBose made history for the queer and Afro-Latina community. And noted that there is a place for everyone. Troy Kotsur became the first deaf man to win an Oscar for acting. And had the audience signing their applause. And there were lighter moments, too. Megan Thee Stallion rapped about Bruno. And Billie Eilish should probably be the next James Bond.
theSkimm
This was supposed to be the first normal Oscars since the beginning of the pandemic. That didn’t happen.
And Also...This
Who’s saying ‘clean up on aisle 46’...
The Biden admin. On Saturday, President Biden said Russian President Vladimir Putin “cannot remain in power." The comments came at the end of Biden's days-long trip in Europe to rally US allies over the Russian invasion in Ukraine. The comment — which many interpreted as the US calling for a regime change — was not included in his prepared remarks. The White House since tried to backpedal and say he wasn’t advocating a regime change. But the damage was already done. A Kremlin spokesperson said the “personal insults” narrow the window for diplomatic relations. And that “only Russians, who vote for their president” can decide who rules Russia — not Biden nor Americans.
Who may no longer be able to call ‘dibs’...
The Iowa caucuses. Today, Dems will talk about a proposal that could potentially leave Iowa out as the party’s first-in-the-nation status. Since 1972, voters in Iowa were the first in an election year to get together in person to discuss the candidates and decide who to support. The caucuses historically set the stage for the rest of the primary season, giving the winning primary candidate momentum (and some delegates). But Iowa is one of the least diverse states in the country. Not to mention, the 2020 Iowa caucuses were a certified disaster (think: technical issues, needing to rely on a coin toss, and a caucus poll abruptly canceled a day before). Up next: If the proposal is accepted, other states will have a few weeks to submit apps to take the early window.
Who nurses are talking about...
RaDonda Vaught. Last week, the former Tennessee nurse was found guilty of negligent homicide. In 2017, Vaught's then 75-year-old patient died after the nurse injected her with the wrong medication. Vaught had ignored the warning signs. And acknowledged her error. But nurses say mistakes are inevitable. And medical errors are usually handled in civil courts meaning a criminal prosecution like this is extremely rare. Now, some experts and associations are worried the conviction could set a precedent — and discourage other nurses from owning up to their mistakes. The news comes as nurses already face short-staffing after over two years of the pandemic. Vaught is scheduled to be sentenced in May.
What's causing a bracket bust...
The Final Four. March Madness is whittling down to the top teams in college basketball. Old rivals will meet again with UNC and Duke facing off after the Tar Heels’ win on Sunday. And the women's teams find out their Final Four tonight. Dribble, dribble.
Who's not getting a royal welcome home from everyone...
Glitz. Glamour. Great street style. Fashion week (err, month) may be over, but the trends are just getting started. And Outerknown can help you rock trendsetting looks…with a twist (hint: they’re sustainably made). Even better? Skimm’rs get 20% off with code theSkimm.
Skincare ingredients that attract moisture from the air like magnets. Then retain it like super powerful sponges. One example you may have heard of? Hyaluronic acid. Which is especially popular in the beauty world because it can absorb up to 1,000 times its weight in water, and help plump skin cells and smooth wrinkles.
If you wanna reap the benefits of this superstar skincare ingredient, meet PCA SKIN®’s serum, lip balm, and award-winning overnight mask. Together, these clinically proven products will keep your skin smooth, plump, and dewy. All while boosting your body’s natural hyaluronic acid production. Oh, and Skimm’rs get a special gift when they spend over $150. Don’t mind if we do…
Women’s History Month
Design: theSkimm
Leave the cape at home — some superwomen rock a suit or lab coat instead. Like Rachel Carlson who makes education accessible to all (hi, working moms) or Kizzmekia Corbett, a key scientist behind Moderna’s COVID-19 vax. Check out our Scrap the Rules campaign, presented by Fidelity and Lilly Pulitzer, to learn more about trailblazers who are breaking glass and kicking...well, you get the idea.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. The show everybody’s talking about. “Bridgerton” is back, and this time it follows Lord Anthony Bridgerton. He’s looking for the perfect bride…but his (extremely) high standards might get in his way. It’s time to get in on the gossip. Watch now. Only on Netflix.*
2. Drool-worthy treats for your four-legged bestie. This custom dog food brand just launched a line of vet-approved, real-meat treats with all the right stuff for your pup, adult, or senior dog. PS: Skimm'rs get $7 off with code SKIMMTREAT.*
3. An air fryer that’ll make you an air fryer person. Get ready to join the club. ‘Cause this XL air fryer has two different baskets. So you can bake and roast (or reheat and broil…or dehydrate and fry) at. the. same. time. Order up.*
4. A smoothie add-on that’ll fire up your metabolism. *Insert flame emojis.* Because this plant-based super powder is finally back in stock. It can help you say ‘byeee’ to bloat and ‘hello there’ to a healthier digestive system. And (drumroll please) Skimm’rs get 20% off.*
5. Quick, convenient care for those less-than convenient headaches or migraines. You know the ones. This virtual clinic lets you make same-day appointments with a neurologist, chat 24/7 with your care team, and start a personalized treatment plan. Plus Skimm’rs get a special discount.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Thinking of…Sarah V (CA). She and her sisters started the Jessica Vollman Foundation in honor of their late sister. The mission: to promote career advancement for women globally through access to education, closing the skills gap, and job flexibility. Check it out here.
(Some) Birthdays…Adam Heller (NY), Amy Griffin (NY), Alexandra Vojdany (NY), Katie Epstein (MA), Kara Crowell (TX), Debbie Ross (PA), Matthew Wielkotz (NJ), Libby Kushma (UT), Stacy Townes (WA), Stephanie Goldman (NJ), Molly Cordle (GA), Mary McCormick-Gendzel (MA), Caitlyn Horvath (NJ), Molly Cummins (TX)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
Let’s talk about the big O…nope, not that one. Ovulation. We compiled all the ways you can stay attuned to your body’s cycle and why you should care about ovulation — whether or not you’re trying to get pregnant. Oh, baby.
And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time…
Listentoour news podcast "Skimm This" for clarity on the biggest stories of the week.
Psst…have you heard? We launched our new Loyalty Program and you’re invited to join. Engage with our content, earn points, and use those points to unlock rewards. Think: swag, exclusive content, sweepstakes, and more. Starting earning and get in on it here.
Skimm’d by Rashaan Ayesh, Melanie De Lima, Kate Gilhool, Julie Shain, and Mariza Smajlaj
