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Fans were not happy about Omari Hardwick kissing Beyoncé at the NAACP Image Awards

Beyonce Knowles, Queen Bey and leader of the Bey-hive, is a downright icon in the music industry. She's as known for her fashion as much as she is her voice. The 35-year-old Houston native is in the midst of a torrid run on the awards circuit, racking up tons of trophies for her smash-hit 'Lemonade.' Not only is Beyonce adding to her awards collection, but her family as well! Beyonce set the social media world ablaze when she announced she'd be having twins back in February. Together with husband Jay Z,
By
April 2, 2019

Omari Hardwick received quite a bit of backlash for greeting Beyoncé with a kiss during the NAACP Image Awards.

» RELATED: Beyoncé, 'Black Panther' win at 50th NAACP Image Awards

Over the weekend, the actor, who hails from Savannah, pecked the singer twice — once on the cheek and once near the mouth.

When video of the exchange surfaced, people criticized Hardwick on social media and debated about how women should be addressed.

Several said Hardwick’s salutation was over the top, calling it “unnecessary” and “disrespectful.”

Others said Beyoncé looked uncomfortable after her embrace with Hardwick.

Many thought he should have opted for a handshake instead of a kiss.

And a few believed fans were overreacting and said “awkward” moments even happen with celebrities.

» RELATED: Jay-Z and Beyoncé dedicate GLAAD award to her uncle

About the Author

Najja Parker is a multimedia journalist covering Black culture for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She is an engaging on-air talent, who has served as a host for the newsroom’s special projects and events, such as the movie premiere of “The South Got Something To Say,” a documentary chronicling the rise of Atlanta hip-hop.

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