If I’m being completely honest, I don’t mind that Kim Kardashian gets invited to “legitimate” events. She’ll show up to the opening of an envelope, and her red carpet style has gotten progressively worse through the years, so she’s always fun to discuss from a styling/fashion perspective. But even I – a partial Kardashian Apologist – have grown increasingly disturbed by the increased legitimization of Kim Kardashian. There was no reason for her to be included on Time Magazine’s most influential list. And there was no reason for Kim to be named one of the “Inspiration Impact” honorees at Variety’s “Power of Women: New York” event. Seriously, that happened.

The five acclaimed honorees at Variety’s ­upcoming “Power of Women: New York” have among them Oscars, Tonys, Emmys, Golden Globes, BAFTAs, a Grammy — and one sex tape. Eyebrows were raised when reality star Kim Kardashian was added to a lineup of “Inspiration Impact honorees” led by Glenn Close, Rachel Weisz, Lena Dunham and Whoopi Goldberg.

Some of the honorees’ reps were shocked that, after confirming their cultivated clients for the event to “recognize the extraordinary achievements and leadership of women in entertainment,” they learned their stars would share the stage with Kardashian.

“Everyone had their own version of, ‘Huh ?’?” said one insider after Kardashian was added to the roster “at the 11th hour.” “None of the honorees knew about Kim” when they agreed to accept the award, the source said, and “every single person had a hard time with it. No one knew about Kim until very recently, and everyone thought, ‘This isn’t what I signed up for. The company we keep is important.’?”

Another source close to one honoree explained: “People were surprised Kim was selected, considering the event is for a ‘New York power issue.’ Kim’s not a New Yorker.”

But a different source insisted that it was only one star’s representative who had any issue with Kardashian’s involvement, and that their client had no problem with the choice. And Goldberg’s rep told us, “Whoopi has no issues with Kim being involved with the event.” But despite any behind-the-scenes drama, a source pointed out all the stars will be in attendance, and “at the end of the day all their charities are getting money — they’re showing up for a good cause.” A Variety rep didn’t comment.

[From Page Six]

Whoopi Goldberg was the one complaining about Kim initially? Out of that group, I would have said… Rachel Weisz or Glenn Close, not because Glenn and Rachel are known for being mean (they are not) but because their star power would be the most diminished by being grouped with Kim Kardashian. I’m sort of surprised Variety is holding fast to their position too – I wonder if there was some money changing hands? Like, “I’ll donate this amount of money to this cause if you give me an award”?

Photos courtesy of Fame/Flynet.