The 96th Academy Awards saw a night of celebration for Hollywood’s finest, but one moment left many viewers fuming. Robert Downey Jr., who won Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Oppenheimer,” is facing accusations of racism after seemingly snubbing presenter Ke Huy Quan during the ceremony.

The controversy stems from a cherished Oscars tradition. Past winners return to present the award within their category. Ke Huy Quan, last year’s Best Supporting Actor for “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” presented the award to Downey Jr. However, footage shows Robert Downey Jr. accepting the award without acknowledging Quan, shaking hands with others onstage instead. The snub was made even more glaring as Quan appeared to reach out for a handshake that went unanswered.

WHY DID HE IGNORE KE HUY QUAN LIKE THAT?!?!?!?#Oscars pic.twitter.com/zKfhkciEYH

— Toffee (@toffeedeleche1) March 11, 2024

Netizens, known for their passionate engagement with pop culture, were the first to ignite the firestorm. Social media platforms saw an eruption of criticism directed at Downey Jr. Comments like “Wow, he just treated Ke Huy Quan like he was some staff member” and “That’s so racist of him” flooded online communities. Many expressed disappointment and frustration, highlighting the awkwardness Quan must have felt.

키휘콴은 마치 자신의 일인 것처럼 진심으로 기뻐하고 축하해줬는데 이 미친새끼는 아 속상해 진짜 pic.twitter.com/Xl9lO8KLxu

— 르 (@facingthettruth) March 11, 2024

The situation took an even stranger turn when photos emerged of Downey Jr. greeting Quan backstage. However, some netizens speculated these photos were a mere PR move, orchestrated after the snub became public. Comments like “So he was told to go say hello…probably just for the photos” reflected a lingering sense of skepticism.

glad I wasn't the only one that noticed, and even after when they walked thru the hall RDJ seemed completely aloof to him and I found it strange cuz he's usually charismatic with everyone

— Andradé (@detailsmove) March 11, 2024

Immediately after pic.twitter.com/9HHLdXmQa3

— Luke Flux (@LukeFlux1) March 11, 2024

Nooo he's just overwhelmed ❤️ pic.twitter.com/2VAFGVY7Gw

— Eaaaw (@Eaaaw) March 11, 2024

People keep clapping in front of this scene of racism… this is so weird

— Cricket Freak (@sharma99vishu) March 11, 2024

While the true motives behind Downey Jr.’s actions remain unclear, the incident has undeniably tarnished the celebratory atmosphere of his win. Downey Jr. has yet to publicly address the controversy, leaving fans and critics waiting for an explanation. One thing is certain: the shadow of this awkward exchange will likely linger for some time to come.