LisaRaye McCoy Faces Colorism Accusations After Defending Radio Host

Rob Lederman compared Black women's skin tones to toaster settings, saying he'd "never go to a Serena Williams level."

BYErika Marie
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Days ago, controversial remarks were made by radio host Rob Lederman after he took to the Morning Bull Show and compared women's skin tones to toaster settings. “I would never go to a Serena Williams level, but I’m very comfortable with a Halle Berry level," said Lederman. Soon, he was fired from his job and he later issued an apology, but Berry wouldn't let it slide. She publicly condemned him, but LisaRaye McCoy doesn't understand why people are making a big deal out of Lederman's preferences.

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"He's just saying he doesn't go as far as a dark-skinned Black woman," said McCoy while chatting with her Cocktails with Queens co-hosts. "He's comfortable with the color of a Halle Berry. What's wrong with that?" Syleena Johnson jumped in to disagree, noting that it wasn't necessary for Lederman to have a conversation about the skin tones of Black women.

"That's colorism! He could have said that differently in this climate," added Johnson. Still, McCoy was unmoved and attempted to counter her co-host. "I always say I either wanna get a latte or I'll say I wanna caramel latte or a mocha," said McCoy, But Johnson told her that she's a Black woman, not a White man making those statements.

Back in January, McCoy was criticized after she defended DaniLeigh following the singer's "Yellow Bone" controversy, saying she should be able to "celebrate her skin."

Check out the clip and a few responses below.

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.