Anthony Anderson Responds to Backlash Over Lindsay Lohan Controversial Interview Remarks From 2003

Anthony Anderson has responded to renewed criticism following the resurfacing of a 2003 interview with Lindsay Lohan, where some of his remarks sparked controversy. The clip, originally from The Sharon Osbourne Show, showed Anderson making comments to then-17-year-old Lohan that many now deem inappropriate, prompting widespread discussion online in July 2024.

During the interview, Lohan mentioned recently buying a home with Raven-Symoné, leading Anderson to ask,

“What gentlemen will be at the new pad?”

Lohan clarified that she was single, to which Anderson replied, “She’s single but looking!” She then added,

“But I’m illegal for people that are old.”

Anderson followed with,

“Well, you know, some men like ’em young. We ain’t gonna mention no names, but, you know, I’m one of ’em,”

then laughed before shifting the conversation to her acting career.

Official Statement: Comedy Intent and Apology from Anderson’s Team

After the clip gained traction online, Anthony Anderson’s representative issued a statement to address the backlash. The spokesperson emphasized that the interview was intended as comedy and expressed regret if the humor was perceived as poor taste, reaffirming Anderson’s respect for Lindsay Lohan.

This interview was clearly intended as comedy,

the spokesperson told People on July 25.

He regrets if the humor was in poor taste and maintains the utmost respect for Lindsay.

Any implication to the contrary is both inaccurate and potentially defamatory.

Lindsay Lohan’s Perspective on Public Scrutiny and Hollywood Experience

Lindsay Lohan has previously spoken about the challenges she faced growing up in the public eye, explaining how intense media attention led her to step back from Hollywood at times. In a 2024 interview with Bustle, she shared her frustrations with the focus on her personal life overshadowing her professional work.

Lindsay Lohan
Image of: Lindsay Lohan

I feel like some of [my work] got overshadowed by paparazzi and all that kind of stuff when I was younger, and that’s kind of annoying,

Lohan said.

I wish that part didn’t happen.

The actress also discussed why she chose to disappear from the spotlight, noting,

I feel like that kind of took on a life of its own. So that’s why I wanted to disappear. I was like, ‘Unless there’s no story here, they’re not going to focus on just my work.’

Now 39, Lohan expressed optimism about the positive impact of social media for young women in the public eye. She pointed out that platforms like Instagram allow people to control their narratives more than traditional media ever did.

Social media is so different now than when I was younger, that everyone has control of their own story,

she explained.

I don’t really read stuff that comes out either. ‘Cause I know how it works, so there’s no point. And if you immerse yourself in that stuff, you’re just going to get lost, and it can just do so much to you.

The Evolution of Lindsay Lohan’s Personal Life: Milestones and New Beginnings

While the Lindsay Lohan controversial interview remarks continue to stir debate, it adds context to the actress’s journey—from her teenage years to her current life filled with family milestones and renewed career efforts.

Engagement Announcement in November 2021

After dating for three years, Lindsay Lohan revealed her engagement to Bader Shammas, sharing a photo on Instagram of her engagement ring with the caption,

My love. My life. My family. My future.

Though details about how the couple met remain limited, Bader, originally based in Dubai, has worked as an assistant vice president at Credit Suisse, according to his LinkedIn profile. Lindsay has also spent significant time living in Dubai.

Lohan’s Marriage Confirmation in July 2022

In mid-2022, Lindsay surprised fans by publicly referring to Bader as her husband through a heartfelt social media post. Their representative confirmed to E! News that the pair had indeed married. Lindsay wrote,

You found me and knew that I wanted to find happiness and grace, all at the same time,

adding,

I am stunned that you are my husband. My life and my everything, every woman should feel like this everyday.

Newlywed Moments Captured in August 2022

A little over a month after announcing their marriage, Lohan shared a charming photo from London, describing it as being at the

Home of the queen with my [crown emoji],

providing fans a glimpse of their life together as newlyweds.

Support System and Career Comeback Reflections in October 2022

As Lindsay prepared to return to acting with projects like Falling for Christmas, she acknowledged her strong support network, especially highlighting her husband’s calming presence.

I have an amazing husband, who’s a very calm person,

she told Cosmopolitan.

Just the best. And my family.

Lohan also emphasized the importance of close friendships in her life, stating,

I feel like I have a small group of good friends who are just really good people,

followed by,

That’s the only support that I really need: friends, family, and loved ones.

Embracing Motherhood from March to July 2023

In early 2023, Lindsay Lohan publicly celebrated the start of her family journey, announcing her pregnancy alongside Bader Shammas. She described feeling blessed and excited about becoming a mother.

By July 2023, their son Luai was born in Dubai, marking a joyful new chapter. The couple’s representatives confirmed the news, sharing that the actress and her husband welcomed their first child—a baby boy.

Family Time and New York Visit in September 2024

Continuing to balance motherhood and family, Lindsay and Bader traveled to New York City, where they spent time with Lindsay’s family, including her brother Dakota Lohan. Activities during the trip included visiting the Museum of Ice Cream and attending the U.S. Open, offering fans a warm view of their private family moments.

Family Highlights Shared in January 2025

In early 2025, Lindsay posted several family photos on social media, including candid selfies with Bader and the first images of their son Luai. These posts highlighted the actress’s focus on her growing family as she continues to navigate life beyond Hollywood’s constant spotlight.

How This Controversy and Lohan’s Journey Connect

The resurfacing of the Lindsay Lohan controversial interview remarks illustrates how past media moments continue to shape conversations about celebrity and public image. Anthony Anderson’s acknowledgment and apology show an awareness of changing social norms, while Lohan’s reflections reveal the personal toll media scrutiny took on her as a young star.

Her current happiness with husband Bader Shammas and their son Luai, plus her optimistic view on social media’s empowering role, suggest a hopeful new phase in her life. As the public revisits the past, Lohan’s story underscores the importance of respecting personal boundaries and growth over time, both for celebrities and the audiences observing them.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Lindsay Lohan a billionaire?

A. As per Celebrity Net Worth, Lindsay Lohan’s estimated wealth is about $2 million. While this is a fair amount, it seems quite low because she has made roughly $28 million just from movie paychecks during her career.

Q. Is Lindsay Lohan a natural redhead?

A. When I was younger, I often felt different from others, but now that’s completely changed. I’ve come to love my red hair.

For Lohan, choosing a blonder look doesn’t take away her identity as a redhead. It’s actually a sign of her flexible style.

Q. What does Lindsay Lohan suffer from?

A. Lindsay Lohan faced challenges due to her struggles with drug and alcohol addiction. These difficulties impacted her relationships and disrupted her financial stability.

Q. Did Oprah give Lindsay Lohan $2 million?

A. According to a report, Oprah Winfrey is providing Lindsay Lohan with $2 million and hiring two assistants to work for her full-time.