NEW YORK: Singer and actress Selena Gomez has come under criticism on social media after promoting a product from her Rare Beauty cosmetics brand while travelling to pre-wedding celebrations for her longtime friend, Taylor Swift.
The backlash followed a series of social media posts in which Gomez shared a video of herself applying Rare Beauty lipstick while en route to Swift’s rehearsal dinner, followed by a close-up image highlighting the product.
Some social media users criticised the promotional posts, arguing that using content related to the highly anticipated wedding celebrations to market a commercial product was inappropriate. Others defended Gomez, describing the posts as consistent with her role as the founder of the beauty brand.
What sparked the online debate?
The controversy emerged ahead of a private rehearsal dinner attended by close friends and family members before Taylor Swift’s wedding to NFL star Travis Kelce.
Gomez appeared in the video wearing a black strapless gown and showcased one of Rare Beauty’s lipstick products while travelling to the event. The promotional nature of the posts quickly drew mixed reactions online.
Critics accused the actress of using the occasion for brand promotion, while supporters argued that the post reflected her regular social media activity and business responsibilities.
Who attended the pre-wedding celebrations?
The rehearsal dinner was attended by several celebrities, including music producer Jack Antonoff and actor Adam Sandler, ahead of the couple’s wedding ceremony scheduled for Friday in New York.
Despite the online criticism surrounding Gomez’s posts, the pre-wedding celebrations proceeded as planned.