It did not go down well online.
James Charles broke new ground in October of 2016 when he became the first male representative for Cover Girl. Together with Katy Perry, they unveiled him as their new brand ambassador.
The 17-year-old is usually very popular with people online but his recent tweets about Africa received major backlash. Ahead of a school trip to South Africa, he tweeted about potentially contracting Ebola during the visit.
Although he deleted it, it didn’t stop people from sharing the screenshot and complaining online.
I will no longer support your company as long as he’s on the campaign. This was stereotypical & degrading to Africa. @COVERGIRL @COVERGIRL pic.twitter.com/RpgMp1lqfg
— IG/SC: ParisHeelton (@ImTheBombDotCom) February 16, 2017
@COVERGIRL should take this time to show ignorant views aren’t acceptable and there are consequences. #jamescharles
— moonlitsteph ✨? (@MakeupSteph) February 18, 2017
Not buying any @COVERGIRL products until they fire @jamescharles for what he said.
— gisselle. (@JadoreLucio) February 18, 2017
@COVERGIRL no his statements were UNACCEPTABLE please make @oraltwjnk the new face ?
— moms ? (@localhotdad) February 18, 2017
James issued a lengthy apology where he tried to explain his insensitive tweet.
— James Charles (@jamescharles) February 16, 2017
I misspoke & said country because we are traveling specifically to South Africa only. I know Africa is a continent and wanted to post an
— James Charles (@jamescharles) February 16, 2017
ACTUAL, GENUINE, apology as soon as physically possible. I have a million things in my head right now. I am sorry and want to fix it somehow
— James Charles (@jamescharles) February 16, 2017
Cover Girl also responded to the controversal tweet saying:
“James Charles’ tweet does not represent COVERGIRL’s perspective.
We agree his statements were inappropriate but appreciate that he has issued an apology.
We are an inclusive brand and respect all people and cultures.”
James Charles’ tweet does not represent COVERGIRL’s perspective.
— COVERGIRL (@COVERGIRL) February 16, 2017
We agree his statements were inappropriate but appreciate that he has issued an apology.
— COVERGIRL (@COVERGIRL) February 16, 2017
We are an inclusive brand and respect all people and cultures.
— COVERGIRL (@COVERGIRL) February 16, 2017
