KTLA's Sam Rubin Addresses Viral 'The Bear' Interview Gaffe, Apologizes for Excluding Ayo Edebiri

KTLA’s veteran entertainment anchor, Sam Rubin, has publicly addressed a recent on-air gaffe that quickly sent social media into a frenzy. The seasoned reporter found himself at the center of a viral moment after seemingly excluding Emmy-winning actress Ayo Edebiri during a Zoom interview with her ‘The Bear’ co-stars, Jeremy Allen White and Ebon Moss-Bachrach.

The incident, characterized by an awkward silence and Edebiri’s subtle reaction, prompted a swift and heartfelt apology from Rubin, who took full responsibility for the oversight.

The now-infamous moment occurred during a virtual press junket for the critically acclaimed FX series. As Rubin connected with White and Moss-Bachrach, Edebiri was clearly visible on the screen, participating in the same interview.

However, Rubin, seemingly focusing on a two-shot of the male actors on his monitor, began the conversation by asking, "Are you both alone together?" The question hung in the air, creating a palpable tension as White and Moss-Bachrach glanced at Edebiri, who visibly reacted by looking down and then offering a subtle, knowing side-eye to the camera.

The clip immediately resonated with viewers, who amplified Edebiri's reaction across various platforms, turning the seemingly innocuous question into a viral sensation.

Fans and critics alike quickly dissected the interaction, with many pointing out the oversight as a prime example of subtle exclusions in media, while others defended Rubin, attributing it to a genuine technical misunderstanding.

Regardless, the clip ignited widespread discussion, putting both the reporter and the talented actress in the spotlight for an unintended reason.

Recognizing the widespread attention and the discomfort caused, Sam Rubin wasted no time in issuing a sincere apology. In a video posted to his personal social media, he candidly admitted his mistake, stating, "My intention was to talk to the two of them." He explained that he was viewing the interview on a split screen where only White and Moss-Bachrach were prominently featured, leading to his unfortunate phrasing.

"It was truly my mistake," he reiterated, emphasizing that he genuinely did not see Edebiri in his immediate view at that specific moment.

Rubin went on to praise Edebiri’s immense talent and success, acknowledging her recent Golden Globe and Emmy wins for her role as Sydney Adamu in ‘The Bear.’ He expressed deep regret for the oversight, emphasizing that it was an unintentional blunder on his part and not a deliberate exclusion.

"I regret it," he concluded, making it clear he understood the gravity of his words and the impact they had.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unique challenges of virtual interviews and the intense scrutiny public figures face. While an honest mistake, Rubin’s swift and genuine apology demonstrates a commitment to accountability, allowing for a moment of learning and reflection in the ever-evolving landscape of celebrity journalism.