Gayle King Defends Blue Origin Flight Amid Public Backlash

NEW YORK, April 15, 2025 — Gayle King expressed disappointment over criticism surrounding her participation in an all-female Blue Origin space flight on April 14. The flight, which lasted approximately 11 minutes, included notable figures such as singer Katy Perry, rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, bioastronautics researcher Amanda Nguyen, and Lauren Sanchez, Jeff Bezos’ fiancée.

In an interview on CBS Mornings, King addressed detractors who deem the mission frivolous. “There was nothing frivolous about what we did,” she stated, arguing that the flight’s purpose aligned with broader efforts to make Earth a better place. “Space is not an either or; it’s a both and. Because you do something in space doesn’t mean you’re taking anything away from Earth,” King explained.

Critics have raised concerns regarding the environmental impact and resource allocation of such space flights. Actress Olivia Munn questioned the historical significance of the mission, stating, “Space exploration was to further our knowledge and to help mankind. What are they gonna do up there that has made it better for us down here?”

Another critic, actress Emily Ratajkowski, expressed her discontent in a TikTok video, saying, “Look at the state of the world, and think about how many resources went into putting these women into space, for what?” Meanwhile, Olivia Wilde shared a meme mocking the flight, captioning it, “Billion dollars bought some good memes, I guess.”

The Blue Origin space mission, part of the company’s push into commercial space travel, has reignited the debate on the ethical implications of private space exploration. The cost of a ticket is reported to be around $150,000, with the first seat auctioned for $28 million in 2021. It remains unclear which passengers on the recent flight paid for their seats.

Despite criticism, King reiterated the flight’s inspirational impact, stating that many women and young girls have reached out to express their motivation. King’s comments underscore the dual role of such missions in promoting gender equality in space exploration while tackling environmental issues.

Blue Origin was founded in 2000 by Jeff Bezos, who aims to revolutionize access to space. Before takeoff, he encouraged the flight’s participants, saying, “When you get back, I can’t wait to hear how it’s changed you. I love you all. See you soon. Godspeed.” As of now, Bezos has not publicly responded to the ongoing controversies surrounding the flight.