In the news conference, Gayle King responds to viral footage from her uncomfortable Blue Origin space flight.
Gayle King addresses the viral video of her boarding the Blue Origin rocket, explaining her nerves during a historic all-female mission to space.
Gayle King’s demeanor sparked concern as she boarded the historic Blue Origin flight
Broadcaster Gayle King made headlines after participating in an all-female space flight aboard Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin on April 14. She was joined by singer Katy Perry, activist Amanda Nguyen, producer Kerianne Flynn, rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, and journalist Lauren Sánchez.
The 11-minute suborbital mission marked the first all-women crew since 1963. While the event was historic, viewers quickly focused on a viral moment involving King before launch.
As the crew approached the spacecraft, each woman rang a ceremonial bell before boarding. While most participants smiled, King appeared tense and visibly uncomfortable. Social media users expressed concern, saying she looked “miserable,” “nervous,” and even “terrified.”
Social media reacts to gayle king’s ‘uncomfortable’ boarding footage on blue origin
Footage captured a moment showing Gayle King appearing visibly uncomfortable while boarding the Blue Origin flight.
The clip sparked serious concern, with many viewers expressing shock over her emotional reaction.
One perspn said: pity they all didnt get stuck for a year…..
A second wrote: Her show is tanking,anything for attention
While a third commented: ‘d be scared s***less too! But she did it.”
Another added: Gayle looks miserable.
Someone else said: Gail should have been left up in space for a couple years
Another user added: It was a little silly, rich girls having fun in the publics eye.
Gayle King explains why she appeared scared before the launch
Following her safe return, King addressed the viral footage during a news conference later that day.
She openly acknowledged her unease in the moments before liftoff.
“At that moment, I was so afraid,” King admitted. “ I just wanted to get into my seat because I just wanted to let the training kick in.“I just wanted to get inside the capsule and sit down, so the process of walking up there was a little daunting for me.”
The broadcaster shares a bizarre piece of advice she received before liftoff
During the same conference, King shared a humorous message she’d received before the flight from a friend in Germany.
The note said, “I got a text from a friend who’s from Germany – so, you know, you have to appreciate the sense of humor – he says, ‘once you get there, you’re going to feel like it’s sex with the gods’.
However, she shifted back to a more reflective tone. “What I did feel was the stillness, the silence, and that brilliant neon blue,” she said. “It’s something I’ll never forget.”
During the news conference, Gayle King also reflects on her powerful experience and personal growth.
After returning to Earth, King expressed newfound confidence and gratitude. “I walked out thinking, ‘Gosh, I can do anything.’ I’m so proud of us, and I’m proud of me.”
Her words resonated with those inspired by the mission’s deeper message: bravery, exploration, and the power of women supporting women.
Other crewmates also reflected on the mission’s emotional depth. Lauren Sánchez, fiancée of Jeff Bezos, said, “It was quiet, but really alive. We saw the moon. We did this together.”
Fighting back tears, Sánchez added, “I don’t even know how this is going to change me.”