Piers Morgan slams Beyoncé over Marilyn Monroe-inspired advertisement

Beyonce in new Levis ad

Beyoncé has once again found herself at the centre of cultural debate—this time, not for her music, but for her appearance in a Levi’s campaign. The global superstar, known for her bold fashion choices and creative versatility, recently starred in a new advertisement that seemingly draws inspiration from 1950s Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe. But what was likely intended as a glamorous tribute has sparked a wave of backlash online.

Styled with voluminous platinum blonde curls, sharp winged eyeliner, and classic red lipstick, Beyoncé’s look is unmistakably reminiscent of Monroe’s signature image—especially her appearance in films such as Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

The campaign’s visuals ignited conversation the moment they dropped, dividing audiences over whether it was homage or overstep.

Leading the charge of criticism was British broadcaster Piers Morgan, who accused the singer of cultural appropriation. “Very disappointed to see Beyoncé culturally appropriate Marilyn Monroe in her new Levi’s ad,” Morgan posted on X.

Very disappointed to see Beyoncé culturally appropriate Marilyn Monroe in her new Levi’s ad. pic.twitter.com/OwRRfhuwOL

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) August 6, 2025

His remarks prompted an avalanche of reactions on social media. While some critics claimed Beyoncé was trying to “look more white,” others felt the concept lacked originality. “Sydney Sweeney did it better. Beyoncé is culture appropriation but y’all won’t admit it,” one person commented. Another viewer slammed the quality of the visuals: “NO LEVI’S this looks soooo cheap.”

Morgan’s tweet also drew strong counter-arguments. Some accused him of racial bias: “Admit you hate Black people. No wonder you hate Meghan.” Others defended Beyoncé’s creative expression, arguing that Monroe is a pop culture symbol, not an ethnicity. “Marilyn Monroe had blonde hair which means… Black people can’t put on wigs? Is that really the argument?” one user wrote.

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Supporters also pointed to double standards in how tributes are interpreted, with one noting: “Beyoncé channeling Monroe is an homage - something white celebrities have done with Black icons for decades without critique. The selective outrage reeks of double standards.”

At present, neither Beyoncé nor Levi’s has addressed the controversy publicly.