Scroll To Top
News

Calvin Klein Sorry for 'Queer-Baiting' Ad With Bella Hadid, Robot

Bella

The fashion giant admitted that using a straight model kissing a female digital avatar to sell clothes was a questionable choice.

Nbroverman

We need your help
Your support makes The Advocate's original LGBTQ+ reporting possible. Become a member today to help us continue this work.

Calvin Klein addressed criticism of a recently released advertisement showing supermodel Bella Hadid making out with Lil Miquela, an artificial female "influencer" that's been described as both a digital avatar and a robot.

The ad, part of the "I Speak My Truth" campaign, encourages people (and, ostensibly, shoppers) to embrace their vulnerabilites.

"Life is about opening doors," Hadid says as Lil Miquela strolls towards her. "Creating new dreams you never knew could exist," Hadid says before the two peer into each other eyes and kiss before the lights dim.

As Teen Vogue points out, some found the commercial exploitative.

Calvin Klein released a statement on Friday addressing the criticism and said company officials "regret any offense we caused."

Recommended Stories for You

Nbroverman
Point Foundation 2025 MorganOut / Advocate Magazine - Alan Cumming and Jake Shears

From our Sponsors

Most Popular

Latest Stories