Is Silence Always The Best Policy?

Explosive is a fitting description of Katt Williams‘ interview on Shannon Sharpe‘s “Club Shay Shay” podcast. The January 3rd episode went viral on YouTube with over 40 million views and counting. But “explosive” doesn’t just reflect the massive viewership–the word also represents the type of accusations Katt fired at several celebrities.

Many publicists tell clients to simply not respond when attacked publicly, but that’s hard to do when you feel your character and/or integrity have been degraded. And because of power of social media, sometimes a non-response can be perceived as an admission to allegations. While some people are unlikely to change their opinion no matter what’s said in a response. Here are some ways to defend yourself without clapping back, as demonstrated by Steve Harvey, Ludacris, Kevin Hart and Rickey Smiley, who were all targets of Katt Williams last week.

Acknowledge Without Addressing Allegations
Steve Harvey has multiple national platforms, from “Family Feud” on television, his nationally syndicated program “The Steve Harvey Morning Show,” and many massive social media accounts. Katt Williams accused Steve Harvey of stealing the idea for “The Steve Harvey Show” from comedian Mark Curry, and Katt also claimed Steve tried to steal Bernie Mac’s part in “Ocean’s Eleven.” Instead of discussing the matter on radio, a behind the scenes moment from “Family Feud” was posted on Steve Harvey’s X account, featuring Steve talking to the studio audience about dealing with haters.

You don’t have to address your haters pic.twitter.com/pBUEIgeGBW

— Steve Harvey (@IAmSteveHarvey) January 7, 2024

Entertain
Both Ludacris and his wife were targets of Katt Williams. Luda and Katt were up for a position with the illuminati, claimed Katt. But Ludacris won out resulting in millions from “The Fast & Furious” franchise and an ugly wife. Instead of posting a message or making comments in a video, Ludacris returned to his rap roots and spit some bars knocking down Katt’s incredible allegations.

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A post shared by Ludacris (@ludacris)

Promote Yourself
According to Katt Williams, Kevin Hart is underserving of his success and is really a “plant.” While it’s not clear exactly who planted Kevin Hart in the entertainment industry and why, Kevin acknowledged on X that the odd conspiracy theory from Katt Williams as, “honestly sad.” And then Followers saw a trailer for Kevin’s new Netflix film “Lift.”

Gotta get that anger up outcha champ….It’s honestly sad. In the meantime…. Please enjoy MY MOVIE TRAILER to my next film “LIFT” which will be dropping on @netflix in 8 days!!!!! There is a moment in the trailer where @gugumbatharaw says “They Really Love You” ….I now know… pic.twitter.com/vM8PhVoC08

— Kevin Hart (@KevinHart4real) January 4, 2024

Take The High Road
Katt Williams’ issue with Rickey Smiley revolves around the casting for “Friday After Next.” Rickey previously stated he was up for the role of Money Mike but ended up playing Santa Claus in the film. Katt ended up playing Money Mike, but still seems to have resentment towards Rickey for telling the story on a previous on a previous episode of “Club Shay Shay” and accused Rickey of lying. Instead of engaging in the name calling, the syndicated program “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” was where Rickey addressed Katt’s comments. Rickey and his previous manager Gary Abdo retold the story as they remember it, while being complimentary to Katt Williams and his Talent.