Zendaya Is Criticized for Her Cher-Inspired Look at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Embodying the style of musical legend Cher, Hollywood star Zendaya shined in a glittering dress reminiscent of one of the many iconic looks the powerhouse entertainer has worn before. She rocked this ensemble at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Cleveland, Ohio on October 19 (2024), where she expressed heartfelt words to the beloved artist.

The 27-year-old actress and style icon attended the event in a beaded gown that left her entire midriff exposed and showcased her toned physique.

Along with the criss-cross straps covering Zendaya’s bosom, the gold and skin-colored gown featured strategically placed cutouts. These cutouts draped across her body in a way that was both daring and chic.

Zendaya’s dress channeled a memorable 1970s Cher look — when the singer was known for her bold fashions and her solo music and variety show.

In addition to the stunning gown, Zendaya, who sported long, sleek black hair that parted perfectly down the middle, paired her look with golden stiletto heels that elongated her already statuesque frame.

Photos showed that, at some point, she layered her outfit with a luxurious white coat adorned with gold embroidery along the edges. Allowing the outfit to take center stage, Zendaya accessorized minimally with just a hint of sparkle in her bracelets and ring.

Aside from her solo snaps, Zendaya also posed for pictures alongside fellow industry stars like Dua Lipa and the guest of honor herself, Cher, who rocked an all-black outfit.

As the evening progressed, the “Euphoria” actress took to the stage to honor Cher with a moving tribute that resonated with the audience.

Standing confidently at the podium, Zendaya expressed both her admiration for the legendary artist and the profound impact Cher has had on generations.

“Thank you, Cher,” began the “Challengers” star, her voice filled with sincerity. “Thank you for being an advocate, for being an ally, for paving the way for so many humans of all kinds to live in and speak their truth and to have the courage to be as daring, and as open-hearted as you.”

Quoting Cher, Zendaya continued, “‘You should never be inhibited by what people expect you to do.’ And those are words I hope we can all learn to live by.”

While Zendaya’s homage to Cher captured the audience’s attention, it was her daring ensemble that sparked a heated discussion online. Though many agreed that Zendaya is undeniably beautiful, not everyone was on board with her look.

One user expressed their discomfort, saying, “She’s gorgeous but this is too revealing.” Another questioned the need for such a daring outfit, “Does she really need to be almost naked..? She doesn’t even look happy wearing it..😢 She [sic] a beautiful girl… 🖤.”

A similar sentiment came from someone who likened Zendaya’s outfit to a famous pop culture reference, writing, “Zendaya is beautiful but the dress screams ‘Princess Leia […] costume.’ Cringing — leaves nothing to the imagination and she’s a stunning woman without needing to favor nudity in a dress.”

Others voiced concerns about the message the outfit might send. “Beautiful ❤️ but why [sic] beautiful, amazing, talented women need to undress to get attention😖,” read one comment.

Another observer highlighted what they viewed as a troubling trend among celebrities, “Why are all celebrity women feeling like they have to be 90% naked to be relevant [sic] I hate what modern-day feminism has done to women […] They straight reverse carded it 😞.”

The criticism continued with some people finding the choice lacking creativity. “Women walking around less than half dressed acting like they are being ‘edgy’ is old and boring. It’s tacky and lacks imagination. These same women will vow and fight for women’s rights,” remarked a commenter.

Continuing, they penned, “Put some clothes on, act like a lady, have respect for yourself and show you have an intelligent and creative mind that can move beyond what pop culture says you ‘should look and act like.'”

However, amid the critiques, some fans praised the “Shake It Up” actress. “Zendaya outdid herself again!! 😍😍😍 absolutely stunning,” gushed an admirer.

Another fully embraced the Cher-inspired look, commenting, “Total Cher vibes and I’m here for it. Gorgeous 🔥.” “This look is iconic she’s [sic] looks so good 😍,” declared a fan.

While Zendaya’s outfit garnered a lot of reactions, the main focus of the evening was undeniably Cher’s long-awaited induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

With a career that has spanned seven decades, Cher’s influence on music, film, and pop culture is truly unparalleled.

From her early days with Sonny Bono to becoming an international solo sensation, Cher has continued to evolve and remain relevant throughout every era of entertainment. Taking to the stage with her signature confidence and humor, Cher’s acceptance speech was both heartfelt and candid.

She reflected on the challenges she has faced in her life and career, remarking on how it had been easier to get divorced twice than to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Despite the obstacles she encountered, Cher emphasized the importance of perseverance, “The one thing that I have never done, is I never give up. I never give up.”

Her speech was filled with personal stories, from her childhood dreams of fame to her groundbreaking success with “Believe” — a song that revolutionized the music industry.

Cher recalled how the creation of that song came about almost by accident but ended up being a defining moment in her career.

With humility, she said, “I’m a good singer, you know, I’m a good singer. I’m not a great singer. You know what? I’ll take it.” At one point, Cher addressed the women in the audience.

She expressed her admiration for the strength and resilience of women, boasting, “We’ve been down and out, and we keep striving, and we keep going, and we keep building, and we are somebody. We are special.” Cher ended her speech by giving thanks to her family and those closest to her.

Months before receiving the long-overdue recognition, Cher had made headlines for candidly expressing her frustrations about being overlooked by the induction organization. In December 2023, she sat down with Kelly Clarkson on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” and vented about the snub, despite her extraordinary achievements.

During the interview, Kelly marveled at Cher’s career, swooning, “You have number ones spanning seven decades. Like, no one will accomplish that!” Cher, with her trademark wit, responded, “Two of us have.”

When Kelly pressed for more, Cher revealed that the other musical act was a band, joking, “It took four of them to be one of me.”

The conversation quickly turned to disbelief when Kelly learned Cher wasn’t in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame at that time. “Are you serious!?” exclaimed the talk show host, who echoed the audience’s shock. Cher’s response was sharp and unapologetic, “You know what, I wouldn’t be in it now if they gave me $1 million.”

Despite her remarks, when the time finally came for Cher to be inducted, she accepted the honor with a mixture of gratitude and defiance.

In May 2024, ahead of the induction, the “Moonstruck” talent attended the premiere of “Bob Mackie: Naked Illusion” where she reflected on the upcoming event.

While speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Cher expressed her appreciation for the efforts of those who championed her induction, disclosing, “I can thank David Geffen, my friend and most wonderful person ever, and John Sykes.”

Yet, in true Cher fashion, she hinted that she wouldn’t let the moment pass without having her say. “I’m going to have some words to say. I’m going to accept it as me,” added the icon. True to her promise, Cher did not leave anything unsaid in her induction acceptance speech.