After sparking major backlash for tweeting doctored images of civil rights leaders Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. in an effort to promote her upcoming album, Rebel Heart — Madonna is now apologizing and claims the images are not ‘an insult or racist.’
On Saturday, Madonna took to Facebook to post an apology for not explaining the images or reasoning behind the images before they were released.
“I’m sorry/I’m not comparing my self to anyone/I’m admiring and acknowledging there Rebel Hearts[sic],” begins Madonna, saying that her actions were not “a crime” or “racist.” I didn’t do it/My fans did/And I just re posted those photos/My fans aren’t racist either/If they put me in the same category as these other people,”
Madonna has also shared similar fan-made “Rebel Heart” images on Twitter and Instagram of Jesus Christ, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Jean Michel-Basquiat, Princess Diana, Frida Kahlo and more. The singer also posted images of herself to imply she shares having a “rebel heart” with all of them.
Here’s the “Rebel Heart” cover:
X-mas is coming early! Pre order my album and download 6 tracks! Happy Holidays! ❤️#rebelheart pic.twitter.com/YBiJccfQQ4
— Madonna (@Madonna) December 20, 2014
Here are other “Rebel Heart” images:
This❤️#rebelheart fought for freedom! pic.twitter.com/7OxGT28TuY
— Madonna (@Madonna) January 2, 2015
This ❤️#rebelheart had a dream! pic.twitter.com/PIwcwosS2G
— Madonna (@Madonna) January 2, 2015
Yes Princess Diana was. ❤️#rebelheart! Anyone who fights for freedom is a ❤️#rebelheart pic.twitter.com/GDH6W6NFPC
— Madonna (@Madonna) January 3, 2015
This❤️#rebelheart sang about ONE LOVE! pic.twitter.com/7RGdpL4yzy
— Madonna (@Madonna) January 2, 2015
One of the first ❤️#rebelhearts !!! #iconic pic.twitter.com/abvEf4Ws2J
— Madonna (@Madonna) December 31, 2014
Ultimate ❤️#rebelheart couple! #livingforlove #iconic pic.twitter.com/JkUvHXl5gy
— Madonna (@Madonna) December 31, 2014
January 7, 2015 -
Madonna had her first hit thirty-two years ago. She knows how to work the press: she does something that she knows will get a reaction (publicity,) then she apologizes.
She should be ignored entirely.
January 7, 2015 -
I accept her explanation but I don’t understand how having latex strings around your face equals rebel heart. Boring and I happen to like Madonna. Boring.
January 7, 2015 -
Madonna really needs to take several seats…. She is struggling to remain relevant.
January 7, 2015 -
That rebel heart will never retire
January 7, 2015 -
She always dealt with controversial matters. Her recent actions are no different than her other controversial actions, but of course people will express dissent when famous black leaders are placed in that fashion. Art can be provocative. Me personally, people have the right to agree or disagree to what she has done. I’m not feeling those artistic displays. Also, another point is to be made too. This is not the most important issue confronting our people. We face a lot of real issues in the world.
January 7, 2015 -
call it what you want she has a sick mind she respect nothing nor have any honor.
January 7, 2015 -
Always going for shock value trying to stay relevant.