The footage comes from an episode of the Sharon Osbourne Show that aired back in 2003. In the clip, Anderson — who was temporarily filling in for Osbourne as host interviewed a then 17-year-old Lohan. Since reappearing online, the video has been stirring quite a bit of controversy.
The episode originally aired on December 16, 2003, and what was intended as a light-hearted celebrity interview has now drawn criticism over certain remarks that many see as inappropriate in hindsight.
At one point in the interview, Lohan shared that she had recently moved in with her friend Raven-Symoné. This seemingly innocent detail led to Anderson making some off-color remarks about her living situation and potential male guests.
Anderson, who was 33 years old at the time, posed a question that caught many off guard. He asked, “what gentlemen will be at the new pad with you and Raven Symoné?.”
Trying to keep things light but clarify her statement, Lohan quickly followed up with, “I’m illegal, for people that are old.”
Then, while sipping his tea, Anderson quipped: “Some men like them young. We ain’t gonna mention no names, but I’m one of them.”
He looked at the camera and said, “right now, we’re about to get our freak on.” Then he leaned in closer to Lohan on the couch, while she covered her mouth with her hands, clearly caught off guard.
Following the renewed interest in the clip and the backlash it brought, a representative for Anderson issued a statement to Entertainment Weekly via email. The statement read: “This interview was clearly intended as comedy. He regrets if the humor was in poor taste and maintains the utmost respect for Lindsay.”
Plenty of people have since taken to social media to voice their opinions on the interview. Many shared their disbelief and discomfort after watching the clip.
One user posted: “This is shocking. Has anyone ever seen footage of him actually being funny btw?”
“‘Some men like em young. I’m one of them’ – Anthony a grown a** nasty old man.”
They followed up with: “So gross of him idc if you’re a comedian you don’t joke about being attracted to younger ppl that’s weird.”
