Lavish aboard the Blue Origin spaceflight, Gayle King faced backlash for her participation in the all-female crew journey into space, which also included Katy Perry and Lauren Sánchez. The flight aimed to highlight women in aeronautics, but critics, including Olivia Munn, deemed it as “gluttonous” and questioned its significance amidst pressing world issues. Amy Schumer, Olivia Wilde, and Emily Ratajkowski also shared their disapproval of the space trip.
In response to the criticism, King addressed the backlash during a post-flight interview, expressing how her perspective evolved after learning more about Blue Origin’s mission to improve Earth by utilizing space technology. She emphasized the importance of understanding the value that space exploration brings to society, highlighting the potential benefits of advancements in space technology.
Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket successfully ventured into space, offering passengers a brief experience of weightlessness and breathtaking views of Earth. Despite the high cost associated with the space tourism venture, King defended the significance of the journey, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the mission’s purpose rather than dismissing it as a mere “ride.”
King also addressed the critics who referred to the space journey as a “ride,” pointing out the gender bias in the language used to describe astronauts’ experiences. She expressed resilience in the face of negativity, refusing to let detractors undermine the significance of their achievement on the spaceflight that day.
Throughout the interview, King remained steadfast in her defense of the space journey, urging skeptics to educate themselves about the benefits of space exploration before passing judgment. She emphasized the transformative nature of the experience and the potential for space technology to contribute positively to society.
In conclusion, despite facing criticism from some within the entertainment industry, King remained steadfast in her belief in the value of space exploration and the potential benefits it offers. The journey was not just a luxurious escapade but a significant step in advancing space technology for the betterment of Earth.