Movies

Stormzy Hits Back at ‘Hypocrisy’ Allegations

BBG News

After facing criticism for partnering with McDonald’s and allegations of removing a supportive Palestine post on social media, Stormzy finally spoke up about the situation.

31-year-old rap artist has faced criticism for being labeled as “selling out” following his role in a prominent ad campaign for a global fast-food chain, even though McDonald’s has been targeted with boycott demands due to its ties with Israel.

In 2023, a post from Stormzy expressing support for Palestine was missing from his Instagram feed, leading people to wonder if he removed it prior to securing a lucrative contract, although no solid evidence was presented to support this theory.

On Friday, Stormzy clarified matters on his Instagram Stories, refuting claims that he erased a post in relation to the partnership deal, due to the recent uproar.

He made it clear that instead of deleting the post, he had archived it, as well as several other posts on his page. Furthermore, he emphasized that he does not collaborate with brands who dictate his actions.

Hi everyone, I felt compelled to clarify some misleading information that’s been spreading online recently, which I came across.

Initially, I didn’t save the post expressing my support for Palestine for any purpose other than me archiving numerous Instagram posts during the previous year.

Earlier, I voiced my thoughts on the subject of #FreePalestine, emphasizing the issues of oppression and injustice. To this day, my convictions remain unwavering. I stand firm in my belief that these matters demand our attention and action.

The brands I collaborate with grant me the freedom not to dictate my actions, or else I wouldn’t choose to work with them.

Instead of relying on others’ opinions or pre-existing knowledge, I personally investigate every brand I collaborate with, collect data independently, develop my unique perspective, and make decisions based on my personal findings before engaging in any business transactions.

Stormzy, known as Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr, shared a statement due to the distress caused among people by the spreading rumors.

He continued, expressing that he was composing this message because he recognized there are individuals who have backed him and cheered him on, feeling puzzled and saddened by what they believe transpired. He aims to provide these individuals with understanding, hoping this explanation proves beneficial.

As a lifestyle guide, I empathize that it can be disheartening to see someone who you admired seemingly sway from their core values for financial success. However, let me assure you, in this particular instance, such concerns are unwarranted.

On social media and the web, opinions spread swiftly, often lacking complete context. Though I value transparency, I choose not to react instantly to every misinterpretation or debunk every rumor about me. Sending you warm wishes, Stormz.

Recently, some fans alleged that Stormzy compromised his values following the disappearance of a pro-Palestine post on his Instagram account, coinciding with his new partnership with McDonald’s.

Previously, Jeremy Corbyn, who was once the Labor party leader, also joined the uproar on social media, labeling the collaboration between Stormzy and the brand as “deeply disappointing.

Earlier this month, his partnership with McDonald’s, known as the “Stormzy Meal,” was introduced. This meal comprises of nine chicken nuggets, fries, BBQ sauce dip, a zero-calorie Sprite, and a choice between an Oreo McFlurry or apple pie.

The pushback originated due to increasing demands to avoid McDonald’s, following news that their Israeli branch was offering complimentary meals to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

During the collaboration, people also noticed that various Instagram posts by Stormzy had vanished, such as one from 2023 expressing solidarity with Palestine.

The post’s caption included the words: ‘I hope everyone is good, some fleeting thoughts. 

1. I unwaveringly stand for the liberation of Palestine.

2. In any future scenario where injustice rears its head, big or small, I promise you that I will consistently align myself with the oppressed, a hundred times over. This is a commitment I’ve held true to, just as I do today.

Stormzy explained that the disappearance of his Instagram posts was due to him archiving a lot of his earlier content.

On Thursday, Jeremy Corbyn called on Stormzy to end his association with McDonald’s, making this appeal public through a letter published by the Peace & Justice Project.

The statement reads that Stormzy’s collaboration with McDonald’s is perceived as a means for them to improve their image, which has been tarnished due to allegations of catering food during the Gaza conflict. It further urges Stormzy to align himself with the Palestinian community by terminating his partnership.

The letter additionally motivated supporters to pen a message directly to Stormzy’s management, asking them to discontinue their partnership with McDonald’s.

Read More

2025-02-22 03:50

Previous post Kai Cenat’s Batman Arkham marathon features Christopher Nolan’s original Batcave!
Next post Dwayne Johnson and Leonardo DiCaprio team up for ‘Goodfellas meets The Departed’ crime drama