Stephen A. Smith apologizes for saying Rihanna 'ain't Beyonce'

Stephen A. Smith knows he messed up.

While appearing on Sherri Shepherd’s daytime talk show to promote his new book, the ESPN personality was asked about Rihanna performing at the upcoming Super Bowl.

You could tell a take was coming as he fiddled with his tie. Then: “She’s a lot of things, she’s spectacular, actually … There’s one thing she’s not: She ain’t Beyonce.”

The crowd’s reaction said it all. And apparently, Rihanna fans weren’t happy — both in person and online — about him comparing the star to anyone, even a legend like Beyonce.

So Smith took to Twitter and apologized for what he said

Apologies to Rihanna for my words, gotta be more careful! pic.twitter.com/RLcsaQAJ4v

— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) January 18, 2023