Victoria’s Secret and its parent company L Brands have faced widespread backlash in response to chief marketing officer Ed Razek’s comments about transgender models. Razek argued that the annual Victoria’s Secret fashion show should not feature transgender models “because the show is a fantasy.”
Pop singer Halsey, who performed at this year’s show, concurrently released a statement condemning the comments, saying “I have no tolerance for a lack of inclusivity. Especially not one motivated by stereotype.”
Razek’s comments came at an inopportune moment for the brand, which is already experiencing business challenges. The fashion show’s ratings continue to fall, and L Brands announced plans to cut dividends in half for 2019.
Read more at Fortune.