The Weeknd sounds off in H&M ‘racist’ product copy row
Canadian singer The Weeknd has struck a discordant note against clothing retailer H&M after announcing he would sever all ties following the publication of a ‘racist’ image of a black child.
Singer sounds off in H&M ‘racist’ advert row
The Weeknd stated that he was ‘deeply offended’ by the use of a controversial image, depicting the child dressed in a hoodie emblazoned with the words ‘coolest monkey in the jungle’, before promptly severing his relationship.
The Swedish brand has apologised for any offence caused and removed the image from its promotional activities after its publication unleashed an avalanche of social media critics led by basketball star LeBron James.
In a statement H&M wrote: “This image has now been removed from all H&M channels and we apologise to anyone this may have offended.”
The retailer has further pledged to "continue the discussion" with the alienated musician in an effort to mend fences.
H&M isn't the only brand to find itself at the centre of a racism storm with Nivea raising ire in October over a skin lightening product.