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Leslie Jones Is Joining NBC's Olympic Coverage In Rio, Thank God
Leslie Jones at the Ghostbusters premiere in July. (Alberto E. Rodriguez/ Getty Images)
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In case you've been missing it, comedian/ SNL cast member/ Ghostbuster Leslie Jones is obsessed with the Olympics, and has been essentially live-tweeting the games since the Opening Ceremony on Friday with unbridled enthusiasm, humor, and good old-fashioned patriotism. Her punditry has certainly been better than much of the media's shockingly blatant sexist coverage. And people took notice, including NBC Sports executive producer Jim Bell, who invited Jones to join the network's Olympic coverage in Rio.
And thus, a deal was brokered over Twitter—the same social network that fostered the trolls that were mercilessly harassing Jones on Twitter last month. Here she is announcing her impending trip to Rio this afternoon. Who's laughing now, trolls?
RIO BOUND BABY USA! USA!! pic.twitter.com/Gkaxr2UOPl
— Leslie Jones 🦋 (@Lesdoggg) August 8, 2016
We are very excited about this and can't wait for Jones takes on the events, scandals, gossip, outfits, and outbursts to come.
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For one thing, she asks the questions we all want answers to:
What he listening to pic.twitter.com/WhQA1ymxcI
— Leslie Jones 🦋 (@Lesdoggg) August 8, 2016
She highlights the drama in the stands:
Mama! pic.twitter.com/HfAm1kfAAj
— Leslie Jones 🦋 (@Lesdoggg) August 8, 2016
She explores the lesser-known sports with curiosity:
Wow ping pong is serious pic.twitter.com/4CPk7Ie56O
— Leslie Jones 🦋 (@Lesdoggg) August 7, 2016
And offers up some good social commentary:
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Ok I don't appreciate her husband but whatever pic.twitter.com/vmjdSREdmW
— Leslie Jones 🦋 (@Lesdoggg) August 7, 2016
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Jones will be in Rio by Friday in time for week two of the games, where she will act as a "contributor," making appearances on the network's Olympics-related programs, and attending media events. She will also, blessedly, continue to post on social media.
Slay all day, Leslie and #USA, #USA.
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