In case you were too busy binge-watching cat videos, Bella Hadid, our favorite 27-year-old model, found herself in the middle of a sneaker storm. She starred in an Adidas campaign for the relaunch of the SL72 sneaker, celebrating the 1972 Olympics. Sounds harmless, right? Wrong!
Apparently, the 1972 Olympics had a darker side, with a Palestinian terror attack on Israeli competitors. This little historical nugget slipped through the cracks and landed Bella in hot water. So hot, it could boil an egg!
But fear not, dear reader! We’ve got the scoop, the controversy breakdown, and even Adidas’ official “Oops, our bad” statement.
Monday, July 29 – Mark it in your calendars. Bella took to social media to pour her heart out like a spilled latte. She issued a statement apologizing for the campaign, condemning antisemitism, and talking about her connection to Palestine amid the ongoing conflict with Israel.
Here’s Bella’s statement, fresh off her Instagram story:
“Hey everyone, if you don’t know my heart, it’s time you do! Regarding my recent Adidas campaign, let’s just say it wasn’t my finest moment. I had no clue it was linked to the tragic events of 1972. I mean, I wasn’t even born then! I am shocked, upset, and disappointed in the lack of sensitivity. Seriously, a quick Google search could have saved us all this drama.
If I had known, I’d have run faster than Usain Bolt in the other direction. My team should have known, Adidas should have known, heck, even my dog should have known! I am all about speaking up for what’s right, and this campaign missed the mark by a marathon.
Everyone had good intentions, but the collective cluelessness was astounding. I don’t do hate, including antisemitism. That’s a hard pass from me.
Linking the liberation of Palestine to a tragic attack is heartbreaking. Palestine is more than this, and this campaign didn’t reflect who we are. I’m a proud Palestinian woman with a rich culture that deserves better representation.
I stand by my people and will always advocate for a world free of antisemitism. Hate has no place here. Peace over violence, every single day. And I will forever fight for my people and every person worldwide.”
Bella Hadid, in a whirlwind of sneakers, history, and heartfelt apologies. Tune in next time for more celebrity mishaps and social media drama!
