Scarlett Johansson says John Travolta’s red carpet kiss isn’t creepy

MANILA, Philippines – Remember those red carpet pictures of John Travolta greeting Scarlett Johansson at the Oscars? Well, Scarlett released a statement on just that, insisting that the awkward-looking red carpet kiss wasn’t at all out of line. (READ: Oscars 2015: 10 unforgettable moments)

In a statement to Associated Press, she defended the actor, saying that the stand-alone images did not reflect the encounter they both had:

“There is nothing strange, creepy or inappropriate about John Travolta. The image that is circulating is an unfortunate still-frame from a live-action encounter that was very sweet and totally welcome. That still photo does not reflect what preceded and followed if you see the moment live. Yet another way we are misguided, misinformed and sensationalized by the 24-hour news cycle. I haven’t seen John in some years and it is always a pleasure to be greeted by him.” 

John and Scarlett co-starred in the 2004 movie A Love Song For Bobby Long. 

The photo of Scarlett and John on the red carpet isn’t the only thing social media users found awkward or creepy about John’s Oscars appearance – many people also commented on John touching Idina’s face during their bit together onstage, including host Neil Patrick Harris. 

Near the end of the ceremony, Neil unlocked what he said were his predictions for the evening, including this comment: “Travolta will be back next year to apologize to Idina for all the face-touching.”

John’s rep told Us Weekly that the Idina-John moment onstage was rehearsed. “It was rehearsed in total. John Travolta loved working with Idina Menzel. John had a great time at the Oscars because his wife, Kelly Preston, and his daughter, Ella, were in attendance with him.” 

John and Idina reunited onstage at Oscars 2015 after John flubbed the pronunciation of Idina’s name at the 2014 Oscars, calling her “Adele Dazeem.”At this year’s Oscars, Idina jokingly introduced co-presenter John as “Glom Gazingo.”. – Rappler.com