‘Transgender people aren’t a marketing tool’ – Rihanna replies fan who told her to feature trans girls in her Fenty campaign

Rihanna has never been shy of speaking her mind and her latest views, on the status of transgender models, have been widely praised on social media.

The singer was asked by a fan to consider using a trans woman to promote her Fenty Beauty make-up range.


“I’ve had the pleasure of working with many gifted trans women over the years,” she replied, “but I don’t go around doing trans castings!”

“I respect all women. Whether they’re trans or not is none of my business.”
The star went on to criticise firms who hire models from minority groups as a “token” gesture.

“I don’t think it’s fair that a trans woman, or man, be used as a convenient marketing tool,” she said.

“Too often I see companies doing this to trans and black women alike.

“There’s always just that one spot in the campaign for the token ‘we look mad diverse’ girl/guy! It’s sad!”