Stephen Curry Defends Ayesha After Film Kiss Draws Criticism

On November 11, Stephen Curry posted a video on Instagram responding to criticism directed at his wife, actress Ayesha Curry, over a kiss in her new film, Second Chance Holiday. The Roku Channel movie premiered on November 5, with Ayesha in her first leading film role. Ayesha portrays a romance counselor who reunites with a high school sweetheart, played by Matthew Daddario.

Clips of the on-screen kiss circulated online, prompting comments questioning what it meant for Ayesha’s marriage to Stephen. Ayesha dismissed speculation about the scene in a comment on X, saying it was fictional.

Stephen criticized several men who had discussed the scene on their podcasts, naming former NBA players Nick Young and Gilbert Arenas and former NFL player Emmanuel Acho. He said they were judging his wife without understanding acting and argued that the criticism reflected views about what women should be permitted to do.

He also urged the podcasters to recognize Ayesha’s accomplishment and promoted the film. Before the backlash, Stephen had publicly praised her for landing the leading role, saying he had seen the work she put into it and was glad audiences could now see her perform. The film is available on the Roku Channel.