Despite recently forming a partnership with fashion retailer H&M, the Weeknd says he's effectively cut all ties with the chain as the result of a racially offensive advertisement.
The ad features a black boy wearing a hoodie that reads "Coolest Monkey in the Jungle," leading many online to quickly slam H&M for being so racially insensitive.
"Woke up this morning shocked and embarrassed by this photo. I'm deeply offended and will not be working with H&M anymore," the Weeknd tweeted this morning.
UPDATE (1/9, 9:45 a.m. EST): Diddy, YG, Pusha T and Belly have also reacted to the offensive ad. Read their responses below.
As previously reported, the Weeknd struck up a partnership with H&M last year, developing his own fashion line for the Swedish retail giant.
The ad was originally featured on H&M's UK site, and following the backlash, the retailer issued the following statement after pulling the image: "We sincerely apologize for offending people with this image of a printed hooded top. This image has been removed from all online channels and the product will not be for sale in the United States."
H&M has since issued another statement via Instagram.
As of yet, the retailer has issued no statement regarding the Weeknd's announcement that he will no longer be working with the company.
The ad features a black boy wearing a hoodie that reads "Coolest Monkey in the Jungle," leading many online to quickly slam H&M for being so racially insensitive.
"Woke up this morning shocked and embarrassed by this photo. I'm deeply offended and will not be working with H&M anymore," the Weeknd tweeted this morning.
The Roots' Questlove also took to social media to speak out against the offending 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
UPDATE (1/9, 9:45 a.m. EST): Diddy, YG, Pusha T and Belly have also reacted to the offensive ad. Read their responses below.
Put some respect on it!! When you look at us make sure you see royalty and super natural God sent glory!! Anything else is disrespectful. pic.twitter.com/QVaxgngwh1
— Diddy (@Diddy) January 8, 2018
FUCK H&M.
— YG (@YG) January 9, 2018
I'm disgusted and disturbed but even words can't describe how wrong this is. it's blatant racism, and h&m needs to be held accountable. brother, i'm proud of you for taking action and hitting them where it hurts https://t.co/IJmxD5MxzK
— BELLY (@reBELLYus) January 9, 2018
As previously reported, the Weeknd struck up a partnership with H&M last year, developing his own fashion line for the Swedish retail giant.
The ad was originally featured on H&M's UK site, and following the backlash, the retailer issued the following statement after pulling the image: "We sincerely apologize for offending people with this image of a printed hooded top. This image has been removed from all online channels and the product will not be for sale in the United States."
H&M has since issued another statement via Instagram.
As of yet, the retailer has issued no statement regarding the Weeknd's announcement that he will no longer be working with the company.
