Travis Scott has released a statement addressing the controversial absence of NYC icon and transgender model Amanda Lepore from the cover art of his new album Astroworld
Last week, the Houston rapper unveiled a series of hints leading up to the release, including two versions of cover art created by David LaChappelle. However, the second version Scott posted didn’t match up to the photographer’s post – Scott’s post had Lepore removed from the frame. Taking to Instagram to spotlight the difference, Lepore said, “It was great being part of David LaChappelle’s incredible photograph of Travis Scott’s album cover but I’m curious why I’m not on the picture.” [sic] Furthermore, there was speculation on Twitter that the rapper had removed the model for transphobic reasons.
Scott has now followed up with statement claiming that Lepore “upstaged” him. His statement reads: “This is very important for me to speak up about: Growing up I’ve been taught to accept everyone, not to cast people away but bring them in your home! I have nothing but respect for the LGBTQ community.”
“I want to use my voice to make it clear that everyone on this planet is as equal and fucking awesome to the next. Me and LaChappelle set out to create images that I grew up watching him create for years that inspire me today,” he continues. “Yo Amanda you did upstage everyone even me and I can’t wait for everyone to see the booklet that me and Dave put together that includes all these images. thank you for being a part of it. Sorry for the misunderstanding”. [sic]
Lepore has since updated her caption, adding, “A girl can’t help it! Too distracting for the eyes! Upstaged everyone in the photograph! Oh well……….. I love David LaChappelle and Travis Scott!” [sic]
Read the posts from Scott and Lepore below.
