T.J. Holmes Recounts Accusation of Phone Theft on JetBlue Flight

by Pooja Chauhan · 30/04/2024

T.J. Holmes Recounts Accusation of Phone Theft on JetBlue Flight

T.J. Holmes recently shared a troubling experience on his “Amy & T.J.” podcast, detailing an incident where a fellow passenger accused him of stealing her phone during a JetBlue flight. The former news anchor remained composed throughout the ordeal, mindful of the potential repercussions he could face.

During the podcast episode, Holmes described how a passenger seated several rows ahead of him and Amy Robach accused him of taking her phone. Recalling the incident, he noted the woman’s physical description as “white with dirty blond hair.” He recounted being approached by a flight attendant after using the bathroom near the cockpit, who inquired if he had seen a phone. Despite denying any involvement, the passenger persisted, even gesturing as if to frisk him.

Holmes explained that he crouched down to the woman’s eye level to address her accusation directly, asking, “Ma’am, are you telling me I took your phone?” Despite her attempts to brush off the situation, the flight attendant was apologetic about the misunderstanding.

The situation took a turn when the accuser found her phone in her seat later in the flight, leading her to apologize profusely to Holmes. Reflecting on the incident, Robach remarked that an apology was insufficient at that point, a sentiment Holmes shared.

Holmes also noted that he had to remain calm throughout the ordeal, considering the potential consequences. He mentioned being conscious of having witnesses present to attest to his non-aggressive behavior. In a separate segment, Holmes highlighted to Robach the different treatment he receives as a Black man in similar situations, emphasizing the disparities he faces.