Vogue Cover Starring LeBron and Gisele Called Racially Insensitive
By Tariq Ali on Mar 24, 2008 in Cavaliers News, LeBron James
The image of Lebron James with Gisele Bundchen is stirring up controversy with some calling the “photo as perpetuating racial stereotypes. James strikes what some see as a gorilla-like pose, baring his teeth, with one hand dribbling a ball and the other around Bundchen’s tiny waist.”
Magazine analyst, Samir Husni believes the photo was deliberately provocative, adding that it “screams King Kong.” Considering Vogue’s influential history, he said, covers are not something that the magazine does in a rush.”So when you have a cover that reminds people of King Kong and brings those stereotypes to the front, black man wanting white woman, it’s not innocent,” he said.
James told The Cleveland Plain Dealer he was pleased with the cover, saying he was “just showing a little emotion.”
“Everything my name is on is going to be criticized in a good way or bad way,” James told the paper. “Who cares what anyone says?”
One reader of the magazine commented in USA Today saying:
“This cover is very hurtful to the white basketball players. It screams that only blacks can play basketball, be successful and that white women would choose a black man over successful white man. I am boycotting Vogue from now on.”
Another reader said:
“He’s a basketball player who is known for his abilities…what kind of face should he be making? He is in his element, whether black, white, or purple, he IS a basketball player. It’s not like they took just some tall black guy and made him wear a basketball uniform and have a blonde jumping up and down for him. Sheesh. People need to seriously get over themselves and stop taking things so seriously.”
74 Comment(s)
By Nikia on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Can someone please pay attention to the caption under the picture. Lebron and Giselle are there to illustrate the best bodies. Why would he look any other way. Its a Fashion magazine and Giselle is a high end Fashion model. If Tyra as still an active model, its very well possible she would have made the cover. This is the problem with us as a race. We currently have an election going on, trying to put the 1st black man in office. But we choose to concentrate on something as trivial as a magazine photo. Thats exactly what the world wants. We want to be respected as a race and have our values and opinions mean something, but we are so easily distracted from whats important. Its so sad that this is actually getting this much attention.
By Zach Schiffer on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
LeBron is like the best o one beater
By Albert Roberson on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
I would certainly agree that there are more pressing issues for blacks, as a race, than who is on the cover of vogue. But that should not cause us to completely ignore the images that are used to portray us in e mass market. The inside of the magazine presents what might be called a more tasteful presentation of what the magazine says it is trying to examine; “… athletes, athletic prowess and healthy bodies.” Out of the hundreds of images that were probably taken for this photo shoot, this is te image of they chose to put on the cover. He is only the third man ever to grace te cover, period, and the first black, as well as the first athlete. Whether this is a conscious or subconscious decision. This cover says a great deal about the editors and designers of the magazine and how they feel about blacks, our society, and our collectively place in it. they may very well have designed the cover for the particular controversy and attention they are getting. How we respond determines how we define ourselves and how we choose our place in society. I agree that this issue should be given its appropriate level of priority in regards to the various problems we face, but to ignore it would be to allows others too free a hand in how we get portrayed in mass mediums.
By Rese on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
This is crazy that people can’t think of more pressing issues than who is on the cover of a magazine…ARE YOU SERIOUS!!!! Look go pick up a paper or turn on the news so that you can focus on the real issues of the world like… GETTING OUR TROOPS OUT OF THE IRAQI WAR, WORLD HUNGER, SUFFERING IN DARFUR, PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN…the list can go on and on…ARE YOU SERIOUSLY BUGGING OUT ABOUT A STUPID MAGAZINE COVER!!! Or is this the POWERS THAT BE way of trying to get people to forget about what is really important. Think about it!
By Jesse on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Seems to me it is the critics who describe the look as “King Kong” that are the racists. Seems we are ridiculously too sensitive about these things. Just ask Hillary Clinton how we are having to walk on egg shells at every corner regarding race. If Vogue had placed a white basketballer on the cover the cry would have been “why not a black player?” And it goes on and on. Ridiculous.
By Gary on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Frankly anyone making the claims that this cover is racist should take a little look in the mirror.
How is comparing Lebron to King Kong racist in the first place? I would consider that a compliment to be compared to an insanely powerful giant ape in the athletic context.
Maybe we should put an Asian on the cover with glasses and a labcoat so we can be called racist for implying that he is smart.
This is just another attempt by racism brokers to raise their own profile by calling out racism wherever they can invent it.
Anywho, I gotta get moving. I’m going to sue Kroger today for selling White Bread because of the racist connotations of that term when used to describe people.
By Sarah on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
It is unbelievable to me that anyone would even make the connection between this picture and King Kong. I think the person being racist and making racist stereotypes, is the person who originally made this statement, Samir Husni. Nobody would have even thought this or made this connection, had he not brought it to the media’s attention. Anytime there is an issue of black vs. white, it gets glorified by the media, before anyone even has a problem with it. I really think that America is turning into a scary place, you can’t say or do anything anymore without some individual or special interest group getting offended. Give me a break people!!! If this person ever watched a Cavs game, this is the face that Lebron makes when he is excited, happy, he just dunked etc. I would never, ever look at him and think, “Gee, he looks like a gorilla.” And if this person had ever watched King Kong, both actresses that played Ann Darrow, Fay Wray and Naomi Watts, are both platinum blondes. Giselle is not.
By Mr. Brock on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Ok, (king kong) since this is such a big deal…look at LeBron’s face when they beat the Pistons last year. Better yet, look at any 4th qtr close win. (same face I see all the time)
By Julie on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Forget about the controversy…this is just a bad cover period. It would have been much better with both LeBron and Gisele with a comely smile. What’s with the look of angst? Vogue, you may want to find a new cover editor.
By Anne on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Why can’t we all just grow up and get along?
By Jay on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
It is just an ugly picture period.
By Tom on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Who the hell is Samir Husni anyway? And who cares what he thinks? He’s obviously another hate-mongerer who just want to cause problems. Lebron doens’t seem to have a problem with it.
By Sean on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
I think us “Black Folks” have more pressing issues that a magazine cover. How about just evryone voting in the upcoming election that how’s on a magazine cover. Besides, how about that it took this long for a person of color to be placed on the cover. Nothing against LeBron, but I can think of several other Blacks that could have been placed on the cover.
By deco on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
KING KONG?
By timeminer on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
IT IS CRAZY HOW EVERYONE OVER ANALYZES EVERYTHING. LEBRON JAMES IS BLACK? WOW, WHAT A REVELATION!
EVERYBODY GET A LIFE!
IT IS JUST A PHOTO.
JAMES IS THE BEST PLAYER IN THE NBA. KOBE’S A JERK.
I’M WHITE. AM I A RACIST?
BY THE WAY, THAT BABE IS HOT!
OOPS! AM I A MALE CHAFFEUER’S PIG? YEP!
By Steve on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Forty years ago, the only way a black man could pose with a white woman was if she was a judge sentencing the brotha to a prison term. “We’ve come a long way baby.” It’s time to leave this mess alone, America…we have bigger fish to fry. White people are “damned if they do and damned if they don’t.” Political eggshellness has gone too far. Can’t say the “N” word which is now abused by brotha’s, neither can you say “you people” “black people” nor “y’all” without a protest. LeBron James is handsome, intelligent and articulate. Furthermore, he is represented by the finest legal team money can buy. If he didn’t complain and you’re not retained…I really don’t see a problem. Gasoline is at an all time high, we destroy each other in our own neighborhoods, soldiers are killing and being killed, people are still homeless in the most powerful county on earth and we have 7 more months of being bushwhacked…NOW THESE ARE PROBLEMS!
By LL on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
I know many people here think this cover is nothing however the people produce Vogue spend tens of thousands of dollars to put this cover together. If normal everyday people thought that Lebron looked like King Kong I’m sure some of their executives did to…. I’m not saying its right or wrong BUT I think they purposely choose this picture to insight an argument and cause controversy to sell the magazine. PS why don’t I ever see Tom Brady angry holding a black women around her waist??
By Barry on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Grow up people!!!!!
By juan on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
I thought she was brazilian?
By Tavares on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
Although there are more pressing issues confronting our country (and the issue of this cover is not on the top ten of most important), it should cause individuals to pause and think for a moment. The image on this cover can be look at two ways. One is pretty innocuous - James and Bunchen both showing their game faces (his as an athlete and hers as a model). The other way is the subtlely racial stereotypical tone of the big black man going after the white woman. Those who are offended that some people see the picture as only a picture have to realize that the further we move for some of the more heinous racial moments of America’s history, the picture of LeBron and Giselle will be seen as just a picture. Those who are offended that others would say that the picture plays into racist and/or racial stereotypes have to understand the historical context out of which such a statment would be made (see movie Birth of a Nation. In this movie, black men in America were depicted as savage brutes and one of their aims was to have white women in conquest). America has a race history that is still highly sensitive…and unfortunately, nowadays, people who want to move forward seem to want to tune out the valid points of concern by people who witness and experience subtle and overt racism, while people who have these experiences want downplay the thoughts and ideas of those who may not have witness or experienced racism. And though we do have bigger problems to fix, we can never deny the effect that words and images have on our collective psyche. So, though in many ways, a picture is just a picture, a picture can be worth a thousand words. And for people from different backgrounds, the pictures and words can mean many different things…Therefore, we all need to respect, listen, and learn.
By Dan on Mar 25, 2008 | Reply
I read the same story in a different website that didn’t have the picture featured. Once I found this website with the picture, I must say I was surprised at what the big deal was about. They both look like they are just in playful states of mind.
By Jay Lezona on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I can’t believe how racist the media is for reacting like there even might be an issue with this cover. It’s two people, two stars striking poses. Why on earth would it come to anyone’s mind to compare LeBron to King King? Why should Gisele be thought of as the helpless white girl? Does this picture really invoke that response? I think people should be ashamed of themselves for bringing this up and trying to make it news. Get over it you racist, bigoted piles of dog waste!!
By Proud Black Woman on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I am black, I am a woman and I’M SICK OF THE COMPLAINING!!! I see a magazine cover of two human beings with great bodies.
By Steve on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
To answer the question “why can’t we all hget along?” No one can get along with blacks not even blacks…..they are a true cancer yet they are celebrated in America, delinquents and all…
By Erin on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I don’t see anything wrong with the picture. It puts me in mind of the drama masks. They’re showing emotion for their own respective professions. Could you imagine if their positions were swapped? What would people say about it then? As many have already commented-it’s only a picture for a magazine, not the end of the world. They’ve both worked hard to get where they are, so they deserve to pose how they want. They’re both human after all. People need to realize that and stop looking at everything as stereotypical.
By bjack on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I agree with Tavares 100%.
By Ron on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
Oh good God. Why are some Americans still stuck in the race rut? It’s just a cover that involves a very talented basketball player(that I’m sure many people would want to be) and a very hot model (that I know for sure many people would want to be in). Controversy? What controversy? Get a life. Move on with your lives…
By KC on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
didnt even know there is a f*cking thing called a magazine analyst. get a life, idiot n everyone else who’s trying to make a race issue out of nothing. way2 go lebron, gisele.
By randi on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
does everything have to be a racial issue? it is a picture…period. i am so tired of everything being a racial issue. let it go already. there are more important things going on in the world today, little things, like….The War.
By Abola on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
On lebron james and Gisele photo on the front cover of vogue magazine: how l-o-n-g has this been going on in America?
By BG on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
It seems like there’s always someone that wants to get the public in an uproar when they have the chance… It just looks to me like Samir wants to get his 15 minutes for a little extra pub… Who knows, It will probably get him a reality show……
By krsones on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
Its really funny that peaople always seem to make an issue when its a black man and a white woman, so what? why can people just move on? if you want racism to be gone, cries like this would have to stop. this totally ridiculous, come on people, lets move on. black people get over yourselves, everytime some says something the say he or she is a racist. i’m an african living in america and i’ve seen the hipocirtical ways of some people here it just does not make sense. people should be able to associate with who ever or seen with whoever even on a magazine cover. GET REAL THIS IS 2008.
By Fa Che on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
Well, I am not one who finds controversy in such a picture. It seems like the artistry of the photographer, his model “directing” or “director” and the wind machine have here made a totally energetic look more electric!
However, since we don’t have any words we can say that discuss interracial matters that make sense normal people, I guess if one doesn’t like this photo then it isn’t surprise that we discuss it in the WIND BLOWN HIGH ENERGY PREJUDICIAL TERMINOLOGY that modern US politics has given us to say…. You know there are no “N” word nuts at work on this case, and even though you can call a honkie an honkie still hasn’t dragged up the “honk” word…it is no surprise to me that to SELL MAGAZINES magazine publishers have taken the unconscious of America (Who will be wearing the pants in the White House if B.O. and H.C. win?”) You know? Really. It could be the mixed race gentleman from the energetic politically eruptive Christian church wearing the pants, or the blond bimbo from poh-dunk wearing the pants suit!?” This sure does skirt but not in the least ignore the issue of “Oh Boy! More Sex In High Places!!!” It is not forbidden to talk like that. But why do you even understand the words? IT is the SECRET NOT TALKED ABOUT BY ANYONE (unconscious or maybe universal unconscious) at this time openly PICKED UP BY EVERY ADOLESCENT BEER DRINKING JOKE SAVVY person of any race or education….face it…the jokes in the coffee shop and in the bar and at the gym are all about something somehow that CAN be linked to sex, hormones, or broken-taboos, so why the surprise this is kicking up dust and grit! OH! Why are we surprised that a BLACK MAN and a WHITE WOMAN seen in political intercourse on the big NEWS-TV for the last year RESONATES with this “exciting Vogue cover with the capaticance of a lightening bolt!”
Algorithms, factor analysis derived, can drive the streaming songs on Pandora in genre/mode/rhythm/color/mood/etc. just like Factor Analysts on Madison Avenue, and in the marketing deptartments of major magazines…just like that…stir up some archteypical lusty busty musky non-raunchy sensualitiy taboo-tappin’ photos for us boys and girls who hope, just hope, no Republican nor any Democrat imply oval office hanky panky twixt “Kong” and “Dizzy Blond”….
Thank goodness someone is alert: Chelsey told them “none of your business.” I guess she could have said, “you wanna go outside?”
OMG! Another PROGRAMMED MANIPULATE THE MASSES AIN’T WE A DUMB BUNCH OF RACISTS WITH SEX ON OUR MIND….duh…
No! None of this is the issue.
The issue is that guys rate things in terms of basketballs, baseballs, poolballs, ping pong balls, and etc….I intentionally left out the very very controversial and potentially divisive GRAPEFRUIT!
Dopes and Geniuses come in all sizes!
By Tee on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
“”To answer the question “why can’t we all hget along?” No one can get along with blacks not even blacks…..they are a true cancer yet they are celebrated in America, delinquents and all…”"
That comment is the reason WHY we have to look at the racial undertones of such simple things as pictures. Until THIS cancerous mentality is eradicated, we are ALL going to be subjected to idiotic & racist images and people…THANX STEVE
for proving the validity of peoples alarm concerning the TRUE intent behind showing these types of images!!! No it’s not that serious, but it IS that deep…deeply rooted evil of bigotry & prejudice…
By Tash on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I totally agree with Rese, people that are complaining about the cover don’t even buy it. Yes I am a woman that watch’s basketball and I think LeBron face is apporiate, along with the title BEST BODIES, he has a great one and so does Giesle alot of women black and white are trying to get one just like hers, but don’t want to work towards it, and then blame everybody else for not looking like her, JEALOUS. So folks shut up are YOU SERIOUS, we have a election, I have an Uncle & a cousin that I would love to see come home from the war, but yet we still have about 8months of dealing with the jerk in office, that thinks are family members should remain over there. There is alot more that we should get stirred up about then a magazine cover, get some self esteem, go to counsling, or just shut up.
By Jason on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I don’t see what the big deal is. Thousands of shots are taken at photo shoots, would people care if this was one of the pictures of several with LeBron and Gisele that are inside this issue? Being of both black and white decent I have a diverse group of friends and experience a lot of “racial opinions”. The most shocking to me is how much black people make racist comments in private and don’t see themselves as racist. However, if a white person says something racist in private and it makes it to the public arena we get mad. Race is part of America’s history either everyone is racist since we all make racial comments or at least tolerate them when other people do OR we live in a country where race is overplayed. If it weren’t people like Obama could say “I’m not black I’m black AND white.” Sadly that would create a racial scandal.
By SD on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
Really. When will we become a nation of simply “Americans”. Will we ever be united truly under one flag, one cause without the burden of being catagorized into being African Americans, Asian Americans or American Indians? (Oh yes, we are still here although I doubt there would have been any controversy at all had there been an Indian on the cover with the same look. I also doubt there would have been as much hub-bub about the first American Indian male to grace the cover, but I digress.) People were so upset over the preacher who passionately stated that Americans are inherently racist and yet look? What is the first thing we “Americans” see in this cover? Not two highly successful people in their respective areas. No, that would be too simple. No, we see a black man with a brazilin woman having a great time during a photo shoot and yet somehow, it is stereotypical and racist. I don’t get it. So when do Al Sharpton and Rev. Jesse Jackson get involved?
By Sharon on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
They could have chosen to place Niomi or any number of beautiful black models on the cover with him. The media is always excluding black women. That is the problem.
By karyn on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
Some racist blacks are uncomfortable seeing images of black mem with white women…get over it!
By Etienne on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I love the cover
Go James! Go Gisele!
Haters & unsecure people should take a break sometime
and LIVE
By webster on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
if you are going to make comments like this then turn on your spell check.
By chuck p on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
With the things that are going on today, a black man and a woman running for president, the war in Iraq, we need to really check ourselves. We make such a big issue out of little things that have no validity. People with too much time on their hands have nothing else to do but make mountains out of mole hills. LaBron is one of the top 2 players in the league now - his image is not tainted. If Kobe had not got in the mess in Colorado, he would be on the cover -
By LC on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I see absolutely nothing wrong with this photo and for someone to say it reminds them of King Kong is probably racist and they need to get over it. We are in a new millenium so can we please get past the issue of color. We are all part of the same one race that exist in this world and it is the HUMAN RACE. The different shades of our skin should be looked at as something special to everyone. Just like flowers come in many different colors and are beautiful so much more is the human race.
By JB on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
The comment by the USA Today reader saying this cover is offensive to white players, is completely ridiculous. All of this controversy is ridiculous. Lebron James is the best player in the NBA. I’m sure if Luke Walton was doing what Lebron was doing, he would be on the cover. Or maybe not, because Lebron’s body still looks better. Nothing about this cover says this black man wants this white woman. I am a black woman. I am in no way offended by this cover. The cover does not even seem sexual. Its the “Shape Issue”. And, there two very different shapes. Am I one of very few that thinks this cover makes total sense? People, stop reading too much into everything and stop making this a race issue. If we should be asking any question, it should be, What took Vogue so long to put a black man on its cover?
By JB on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
Its people like Steve who won’t allow race issues to go away. Only a disgusting person could make such a comment. I feel sorry for you Steve and for who ever gave you life.
By Brian D on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
I didn’t notice the color of the people in the image. I noticed an powerful athlete and a beautiful woman… who’s the racist that started this nonsense?
By Andrew Sutherland on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
Ok, can we all as a society calm down and not make this a big issue. If we want to stir up controversy lets talk about the problems with inner cities. Lets talk about the economy. LeBron is an excellent basketball player. If we want to compare him to King Kong then fine. He did take a city by storm and has wreaked havoc in the NBA. He has a huge banner of him on the side of a building in Cleveland stating we are all witnesses. Lets not tear down what he has worked so hard to achieve and the opportunities afforded to him with our own narrow-minded judgments.
By Please help- I cant think 4myself on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
OMG it’s sooo racist..it reminds me of KING KONG but only because it’s all over the morning news…otherwise I would have never noticed because I’m too stupid to think for myself and I need others to tell me how to think and what is offensive.
I am just a typical thoughtless American that still gets ‘offended’ by words and images. At least I think I do, I mean, well—-I’m starting to think that me being ‘offended’ MIGHT be a learned behavior. Who did I learn it from? It wasn’t my mother or father as they both worked all the time to support their luxury cars and coke habbits - OOPS I mean, to support ‘the family’ after all- if daddy doesn’t make enough money, mommy might not love him anymore, and he’ll NEVER have sex again.
MAYBE i DID learn everything I know from Television!
Please..Do tell….I’m not sure what to wear? Whats cool these days? I’ll just look inside this New VOGUE I bought….I hear the cover is offensive.
By Deb on Mar 26, 2008 | Reply
King Kong and Faye Ray? That would have never entered my mind. Looks like a great cover that totally fits the subject of “shape” that the issue is covering.This zipperhead,Samir Husni,is obviously a nutjob and is looking for publicity. No one would have ever thought of King Kong if he hadn’t brought it up and if they did, then they need intense therapy and, oh yeah, a life!
By Teri on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
WOW!!! Lebron looks good!!! I’m glad he made the cover. I am a black woman with a son who is an accomplised athelete. I’d be so proud if he was on the cover of Vogue. He makes a face that is even worse than Lebron when he tackles someone.(football) Leave it alone!! I’m not even thinking about such nonsense as King Kong!!
Lebron is FINE!!!!!! If you see King Kong when you look at this picture than something is wrong with you!!
By Teri on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Steve, Please do not generalize. One person does not speak for an entire race. Open your mind and get to know people. Don’t let hate consume you. I am black, but my grandfather is black and white. My race is not cancerous because of the comments of a few. Take care.
By Patty on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
CANCER - truly amazing that in 2008 people still have this type of limited mentality. To make a blanket statement that blacks don’t get along with blacks truly points out as to why this country is not as great as it could be. Please show me what group of people get along 100%! Plus I would venture to guess that if you are a sports fan, you cheer every time you team plays and depending on the sport, football, basketball, baseball etc. there is someone of color that you support, but black people a CANCER, please don’t hate because we are beautiful, talented and educated.
By Clarissa on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
ARE YOU KIDDING ME????? IT’S A BADASS COVER, THERE IS NOTHING RACIST ABOUT IT…………GET OVER IT.
By Anderson on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Well said Albert Roberson. If the article is about being fit and having the best body, it can still be done in a more tastful and more softer way. Take a look at everyone of Vogues past covers with men. Do any of them look like a King Kong with the blonde and the hair flying in the wind like she is on top of the Empire State building.
By Laura Jackson on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Is that person for real? Only people that are racist would or could depict that from the picture. Mr James is a great B-Ball player along with Magic, Larry Bird (he’s white),Jordan,and many others. I also agree with Jesse this should not even be an issue. There are many more important things happening in the world to concern ones self with. GREAT COVER.
By Lauren on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
This is out of control. As a 22 year old, (and part of a hopeful generation that is passionate about color lines only being history) I choose not to be concerned about the color of ones skin but what you individually bring to the table. When I looked at this cover I saw a sexy photo of Lebron, a bad ass NBA star with Giselle, a gorgeous Brazilian supermodel (never once did it occur to me that it was a black man and a white woman). That wasn’t brought to my attention until reading that someone (with too much time on their hands) has hyped it up to be offensive and actually has people supporting his idea! WHAT A JOKE…King Kong!! SERIOUSLY???? I thought the cover was creative, it caught my eye and it looked like the 2 were having fun!! The magazine (in bold letters on the cover) is offering advice about great bodies and being in shape. The way I look at it…Vogue chose Lebron to represent the “best of the best” bodies of men, and Giselle for the women. BOTH of them deserve this!! So don’t take that away from them and their fans. I’m now only offended on Lebron’s behalf because someone (who is either jealous or selfish) took Lebron’s image on a magazine cover and twisted into a racial issue that portrayed him as King Kong scaring an innocent woman (who is smiling huge by the way). This is so frustrating. Has anyone asked Lebron or Giselle if either one of them is offended? While I do appreciate art and how one person can interpret it differently than another, in this case, if you look at this photograph and see it as an attack on colored men or maybe NBA stars, or any other negative story you wish to concoct, please try not to ruin it for Lebron, Giselle or anyone else. Vogue is not out to get you! America is not out to get you!
By Tinamarie on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Ok…What? and So what who cares! what in the world does that cover of that magazine have to do with race or a man looking like a monkey. I mean, don’t he make the same faces on the basketball court. Do people say ‘Oh look at that monkey” or do they say “Damn, did you see that play.” Being a black woman, I am saying loudly, get off of it!
By BennettI on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Couldn’t this just be the 2 sides of Lebron James? Lebron is a beast on the court, but has a softer side off the court. You put 2 of the most attractive people today on the cover of a magizine and people try to make something bad out of it. Nonsense !
By JG on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
I like the cover I think it looks clean, the only thing I am offended by is the cover’s headlines about the “secrets of the best bodies” That offends me because you have two people on the cover whose bodies are not that of an average person their age. LeBron is perfect in tone, mass, and he is handsome, and I am not even going to point out the obvious super model and her body. The secret here is to get money and make it your job to be Hot and physically fit..Or just have good genes…Vogue is perpetuating the myth that everyone can have these bodies which is a lie……Thank you for adding to the continued stigma about body issues in the country!
By JG on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
No Tyra would not have made the cover beacause she is not fat in the eye of the fashion industry…Its BS she still has a great body by any normal eyes but this cover would have never had her on it….
By Oracle on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
The black man posed for the photo of his own free will….thus not racism. GET A LIFE!!
By joseph on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Some peeple need to get a life. When I saw this cover the only thing that crossed my mind was good looking woman, talented b-ball player. When you put toddlers together on a play-ground of all different races to interact, all they see is another human. It takes a racist mind to divide into race and class. The individual who pointed out the so-called controversy he/she is a racist themselves. African-America male
By Pizzd Off on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Can someone please tell me when we are going to get over racial stereotypes and political correctness.. GOOD GOD! ITS A MAN WITH A WOMAN< AND HES BLACK AND SHES HOT WHO THE HELL CARES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Pizzd Off on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
The people who are coming up with this “king Kong” theory are the racists. I blame it on c areless media folks trying to get ratings.. I am white.. and the media is racist!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Jonny Blaze on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
All you people out there trying to stir up trouble,you are the rasist.Who the hell is this Hunsi jackass,he needs to look in the mirror,there he will see a rasist !
By T. Phifer on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
Thank you Alpert. I could not agree more. I even share the same opinion concerning the cover of Jennifer Hudson (I believe it was the 1st cover for a Black woman or plus-size Black woman). Ultimately, our Black entertainers must be more discerning by requesting final approval of any photos used of their image. And of course they must possess the racial consciousness to both understand and acknowledge when racial stereotyping is afoot. Sadly, however, many of these entertainers are too afraid of being sent back to “GO”.
By Emily S. on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
SAMIR HUSNI is CLEARLY the only RACIST involved in this “story”. I’m white and all I see is two extremes of fabulous bodies–that’s ALL I see. Husni sees a gorilla? OH MY GOD! This person’s absurb opinion is the EPITOMY OF RACISM! SHAME ON YOU HUSNI!!!! What a jerk.
By Roxanne on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
LOL….I concur. It’s just a magazine cover. And Vogue is doing what it does best…MAKE MONEY!!!
By Erin on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply
The only ones “perpetuating racial stereotypes” are the idiots reading this far into a simple picture. GET A GRIP PEOPLE!
By Kenny T on Mar 28, 2008 | Reply
What the heck is a “magazine analyst” anyway?
By Bob B on Mar 28, 2008 | Reply
I am continually amazed at our “society’s” narrow mindedness, hair trigger political sensitivity, and inability to see things for what they are. The feature to which the picture was tied was basically about beauty and brawn. HOW on earth can one see that picture and leap to a racially charged, deliberate attempt to incite divisivness in our society is beyond my comprehension.
We Americans are so politically, gender, religion, race, disability and so on sensitive we have become the butt of jokes around the world rather than an example of a mature, free society. We are continually labeling ourselves as (insert what you think your background is)-American, that we have a nation not of Americans, but of separate and distinct tribes. Isn’t that what we try to fix around the world? Isn’t that what got the former Yugoslavia into civil war? Rwanda? Liberia?
How can we call ourselves an example when this sort of stuff goes unchecked in the “United” States of America?!
By Muata from Muata Truth Telling on Mar 28, 2008 | Reply
The issue lies with us (black folk) - but some of us are offended, and rightfully we cannot dismiss the insult or pain the photo has created. Hypersensitivity, something I believe too many black people have, is tied to emotion. Emotion typically leads many of us to over react. We (black people) are a damaged people. Damaged by the brutally of slavery. We are hurting, and we want to be respected - but fail at times to address the issue the white man/governmental system has assembled through cultural destruction: The Man in the Mirror. We need to start over with a healing process that is directed by us, and not some white power structure. It is interesting that we dismiss this, the demeaning of black women, crime committed by us on us, and everything else associated with our pain - but NEVER address our black self hatred. I find that to be sad!
-Muata
By robyn on Mar 30, 2008 | Reply
Its not that its offensive, I think offensive is the wrong word being used here. I think the word should be Blatant or Obvious. Its the imagery alone that conjures an obvious idea/stereotype. Honestly they could have gotten any black female model and it would have read completely different. But… they have a white female model who is supposedly the ultimate example of beauty (according to many articles written about her). The image definately helps to play into the stereotype/ constant images (especially these days) showing a black man loving his white pricess. And eventhough they dont appear to be intimate it is still clear what message is being put across. It not just a picture, its whats in the picture and what is being conveyed visually. If you dont believe me.. look at the commercials, even sitcoms express this stereotype of black men who secretly supposedly want and love only white women. This image clearly represents a black man cluching his prize, and in this case a successful young ,black, well off basketball player clutching his prize.. a young thin blondish white woman( even if she is brazillian, she clearly reads as a white woman and it doesnt matter) Black women in my opinion are clearly and strategically being pushed out of the picture. PAY ATTENTION next time you watch television. Usually the black women are single, or TRYING to get a man, upset because they cant get one and if they have one he doesnt really want her or she is upset with him fussing him out, which also helps to play into the stereotype that black women are mean and degrade their men despite the fact that he might actually be a complete idiot. And yes its just tv, but the media/entertainment plays a HUGE role in how we think, express and form opions on things. Its very clear to me, but I think some black people or people in general are so afraid to talk about this image and what its really represents for possibly being accused of complaining , pulling the race card etc. The problem with that is.. it cripples you.. It makes you afraid to point out and state the obvious, it makes you not want to seem like a complainer or trouble maker even when in fact something really is taking place!!! In other words, if an obvious racial situation occurs where you are the target, but its something that can be flipped to the point where it seems like you are overacting, the person who intended on attacking you wins because they were able to say that you are using the race card or complaining like most blacks do (or other races).. eventhough they actually did do something to you. Its quite interesting how people can be racist, but actually get upset when you call them out on it and then you become the offender and they become the victim. Amazing! When I saw this cover, my first reaction is why? i dont like what I am seeing, and it had nothing to do with his tats, his basketball .. but it was his facial expression ( and yes he makes this face on the court, but thats the court.. and this is a photoshoot) and him gripping on to this white woman. why not a black model? really why not? why? it cleary represents something that reminds me of kingkong and his white love interest…. its the same thing over and over again, constantly you find white women being the love interest of black men on tv, movies, etc. things that shape our opinions, or a black man lusting after a white woman. Its always the same imagery and you’d be a fool to not see this. And yes, I know there are interracial couples.. and thats fine.. i’ve dated a white guy before.. BUT.. Its really annoying when media is constantly throwing out the idea that white women are the black mans prize.. and where does that leave the black woman.. lonely, alone, mad and unstable, or in some cases simply not there. pay attention and you will see what I am talking about. Iam not crazy just observant but this cover is a telltale sign to me what message is being flashed across your eyes. excuse my spelling errors. :)
By Erica on Apr 9, 2008 | Reply
I am so relieved to know that I am not the only person who was AUTOMATIALLY offended when I first saw this photo. It did’t even occur to me that LeBron James was being depicted like King Kong, the first thought that popped up in my mind is “why isn’t there a black model on his side”? I don’t want to hear the bull about they’re both at the top of their game, becuase thats a matter of opinoin. Since when did the modeling industry start giving out MVPs & when did we have a national poll that said she had the best body? Since when is looking sickly the “best bod”? I think Vogue needs to take a step back and think about all of the underlying messages this cover is sending out. First off it screams every successful black athelete needs his white (yeah I know she Brazilian, but she looks white) trophy woman. Here is some food for thought, why didn’t Vogue think to get a female athlete and a male model? Secondly, it reinforces the negative self images within many females around the world.
oh & steve you win the IGNORANT A-HOLE Award hands down.