Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for ‘supporting the fur industry’

Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'

As a lifelong animal lover and fashion enthusiast, I find myself torn between two worlds when it comes to Pharrell Williams’ latest endeavor as Louis Vuitton’s Creative Director. On one hand, I admire his talent and creativity, having been a fan of his music since the early 2000s. On the other hand, I can’t help but feel disheartened by the use of animal products in his designs for the luxury fashion house.


As a connoisseur of all things lifestyle, I found myself in an intriguing situation at the Chateau Marmont after the GQ Men of the Year Awards. Instead of exchanging pleasantries with fellow attendees, I found myself face to face with an animal rights activist who had some strong words for me. In a moment of spontaneity, I attempted to express my understanding and solidarity through a friendly gesture – a hug. However, it seemed my intentions were misunderstood in the heat of the moment.

Last Thursday, Pharrell, appointed as Louis Vuitton’s creative director a year ago and facing criticism from animal activists since then, encountered demonstrators expressing their disapproval once more. They criticized him for his perceived backing of the fur trade.

Despite my efforts to calm things down by giving the activist a hug and saying, “May God bless you,” he continued to express his views.

Despite his attempts failing, the man maintained an unhappy demeanor, with another woman shouting accusations of animal cruelty, Pharrell managed to stay optimistic throughout the confrontation and eventually got back into his car.

The gentleman dressed in an “Defend Animals” attire started shouting, expressing his disapproval: ‘It’s disappointing that Pharrell endorses fur! It’s disappointing that Pharrell endorses fur! I can’t believe it, you’re promoting animal cruelty!’

Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'

Initially, Pharrell appeared to chuckle while echoing certain statements with a jovial spirit, exclaiming, “Tut-tut, Pharrell! Tut-tut, Pharrell!” or “What a shame, Pharrell! What a shame, Pharrell!

Later on, the person who sang “Get Lucky” walked over to that person and tried to reconcile, but it didn’t work out.

‘What type of man uses fur!?’ the man angrily asked. ‘I don’t, God bless you,’ Pharrell responded.

As the man continued to shout at Pharrell, the musician repeatedly said, ‘God bless you,’ as he approached him with his arms outstretched.

The man emphatically declared “Not this!” as he withdrew from a hug and then unveiled his poster for the other person to see, exclaiming, “See what you’re endorsing!

From the crowd, another woman shouted, “Cruel to animals!” followed by, “You should be ashamed!” as the performer was about to get into their car.

This is not the first time animal activists have targeted Pharrell. 

Last month, protesters attended a showing of Pharrell’s film “Piece by Piece” at the London Film Festival, and he encountered demonstrators during his summer Olympic party as well.

Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'
Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'
Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'
Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'
Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'

Previously, PETA Vice President Yvonne Taylor stated: “As Pharrell enjoys glamorous parties with celebrities, animals who are destined for a cruel fate due to his fashion decisions suffer in misery and filth on factory farms and slaughterhouses. They’ll either be brutally butchered or skinned alive.

PETA urges Pharrell to take a stand against cruel practices, encouraging him to persuade Louis Vuitton to modernize their approach by abandoning the traditional use of animal hides and fur.

Last year, Pharrell, now serving as Louis Vuitton’s creative director, drew criticism from animal rights group PETA after designing an expensive, custom-made bag worth $1 million, crafted from crocodile hide.

As a dedicated supporter, I was personally extended an invitation by PETA’s US Senior Vice President, Lisa Lange, to take a behind-the-scenes look at a crocodile farming facility. The aim was to witness firsthand the treatment of these animals before they were processed for slaughter.

Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'
Pharrell attempts to hug outraged animal rights activist confronting him for 'supporting the fur industry'

She said: ‘We’d like to invite you on a less-than-luxurious tour of a filthy (for that’s what they are) crocodile factory farm with us to see the living origins of your ‘Millionaire’ bag.

It’s advisable to pack nose plugs and sturdy boots since you’ll be walking through murky, polluted water. If we decide to explore an enclosed tank, don’t forget to take a flashlight as it will be dark. There’s no room for ambiguity here. Harvesting wildlife for a sack is not trendy – it’s heartless.

According to the New York Times report, some items from Pharrell’s initial collaboration with Louis Vuitton featured fur.

Previously, Pharrell shared details with British GQ regarding his work with Louis Vuitton, explaining it wasn’t like a formal interview.

It felt akin to, “Are you willing to take on this role? Is it alright with you for me to offer you this assignment?” As I gazed upon the water, I found myself quite bewildered.

The seasoned music producer remained modest regarding his latest position at Louis Vuitton, expressing: “I never imagined it would be me.

Pietro Beccari, Louis Vuitton’s Chairman and CEO, expressed his joy at Pharrell’s return home, having previously worked together in 2004 and 2008 for Louis Vuitton. He announced that Pharrell would be taking on the role of our brand’s new Men’s Creative Director.

Translating his unique, artistic perspective outside the realm of fashion is certain to steer Louis Vuitton into an entirely fresh and thrilling stage.

Since 2017, the singer has not put out a fresh album. Instead, he has been actively involved in his latest fashion endeavor.

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2024-11-15 22:21

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