As reported here, ‘Rebel’ diva Lauryn Hill was set to deliver a “surprise performance” with The Weeknd at this week’s Grammy showing. However, the real “surprise” came when Hill was a no-show, leaving the ‘Earned It’ singer to croon his hits by his lonesome.
Quickly clarifying the rumors on her absenteeism, a rep shared with the media that Hill’s appearance was ‘prematurely announced’ and ‘unable to come to fruition’ due to its ‘last minute nature.’
Once those words caught the attention of the Recording Academy’s president Neil Portnow, however, they were immediately deemed ‘inaccurate.’
Did you miss his stinging “clapback”? It awaits below:
“Hill’s absence not only surprised in-the-know viewers, but the Grammys themselves were caught off guard.”
“It’s a disappointment to us and a disappointment to her,” Portnow told USA Today of Hill’s absence. “Our intention was, and we were ready, right up to the moment of the performance, for her to step up on stage.”
In fact, Portnow and an associate assert Hill actually rehearsed with The Weeknd…then missed the actual performance.
“She was there for it, completed it and left the building,” Portnow told USA Today. “And then she did not get back in time to make the show. I’m sorry, that’s the bottom line. That’s the truth. That’s unfortunate. I guess those things happen.”
While The Weeknd has yet to comment on the drama, the news follows years of reports of Hill’s tardiness and absenteeism.