Last month’s cover of Vogue generated a lot of media coverage. Critics called the magazine’s cover, which featured basketball player Lebron James and supermodel Giselle Bundchen, controversial because they felt it fueled racial stereotypes. The cover, photographed by legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz, was compared to the 1933 movie poster for King Kong.
Okay, so there is a definite resemblance. As a long-time Vogue subscriber, I am familiar with Leibovitz’s work. She often uses fictional stories as inspiration for her work, such as her Alice in Wonderland shoot for the December 2003 issue of Vogue. I strongly believe Leibovitz intentionally posed the two in these positions with them being fully aware of what they were doing.
In terms of public relations, Vogue did a good job in keeping its staff, under editor-in-cheif Anna Wintour, quiet. One of the only statements Vogue did release was by its spokesperson Patrick O’Connell.
“We think Lebron James and Gisele Bundchen look beautiful together and we are honored to have them on the cover.”
The magazine declined further comment. Vogue got the media buzzing about its cover and probably generated a lot of revenue at the same time. By declining to address the controversy, Vogue stands behind the cover while still maintaining a somewhat neutral ground. As for James whose picture critics say perpetuates the stereotype of the angry, black male, he is proud of the cover and says he could care less what other people are saying.
4 responses so far ↓
tiffanyderville // April 16, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Fascinating post! The side-by-side images say it all. The question is whether the portrayal alienated Vogue’s employees, customers and other stakeholders. Were there any letters to the editor in later issues about it? If so, were they positive, negative or both? And did Vogue respond to those letters? I also wonder what the sales were for that issue.
Beth Evans // April 16, 2008 at 11:58 pm
You should check out my friend Jessica’s post on the same thing
Truly Controversial
olgawalsh // April 20, 2008 at 1:53 pm
I would have to agree, it is a great post! I’m really impressed that you were able to recognize the resemblance and also recognize the fact that the photographer uses fictional stories as inspirations! It seems like you really know your stuff!
angrise // April 22, 2008 at 12:14 pm
Thanks, Beth! Jessica is a friend of mine as well!
Thanks, too, Olga! It seems like we have similar interests. I am excited to read your blog posts over the term!