NEW YORK: Singer The Weeknd said Monday that he will no longer work with H&M after the clothing company posted an ad of a black child in a sweatshirt with the words “Coolest monkey in the jungle” on the front.
Many people criticized the image on social media, calling it racist. H&M removed the image Monday and apologized to anyone it “may have offended.”
The Weeknd, who has a clothing line at the retailer, said on Twitter that he was “shocked and embarrassed” by the photo.
woke up this morning shocked and embarrassed by this photo. i’m deeply offended and will not be working with @hm anymore... pic.twitter.com/P3023iYzAb
— The Weeknd (@theweeknd) January 8, 2018
Representatives for The Weeknd confirmed the singer would end ties with the company.
Fans of the Canadian singer praised his move.
@theweeknd I applaud you for doing this! Just disgraceful. I can’t believe anyone would even post this. You have no reason to be embarrassed Abel. Keep being you.
— DESIREE CLEGG (@DESIREERN03) January 8, 2018
LOVE U ABEL
— Hnade (@hhnnaadde) January 8, 2018
While others disagreed.
It’s a cute kid wearing a nice sweater
& Looks good on him !!!! !
What’s wrong with this world
OMG
Stop being so sensitive!— Micho (@Micho43630179) January 8, 2018
y'all making this into something it isn't..
— Lorthern (@Lorthernn) January 9, 2018
In a statement, H&M said, “We completely understand and agree with his reaction to the image.”
The Swedish low-cost fashion brand added that it would “continue the discussion” with The Weeknd and his team.
“We are deeply sorry that the picture was taken,” H&M said.
To show this was done on purpose, these pics were 2 not 1, here is the difference pic.twitter.com/8BWvjyioow
— Vura (@vusiswazi) January 8, 2018
