Chinese model pleads for forgiveness after starring role in ‘racist’ D&G advertisement
THE Chinese model who featured in “racist” advertisements for Dolce & Gabbana claims the controversy almost ruined her career as she apologised for participating in the campaign.
Zuo Ye was filmed struggling to eat Italian food including pastries and pizza with giant chopsticks in three clips for D&G’S November campaign in China.
Widely seen as offensive for promoting an outdated and negative stereotype of Chinese women, the backlash forced the brand to cancel its hotly anticipated fashion show in Shanghai.
Ms Zuo broke her silence over the affair on Tuesday when she issued a lengthy social media post asking for understanding. “I feel guilty for causing the disturbance,” she said. “I never expected that this one time would almost ruin my model career. I have never thought of disgracing my coun- try. I love my country,” she added. “I take pride standing on the runway as a Chinese person ... I will grow from this experience and will better display the character of a Chinese citizen.”
Several retailers pulled D&G products following the outcry, which also saw some Chinese celebrities and brand ambassadors axing their contracts with the Italian fashion house.
It also triggered demonstrations at the brand’s flagship store in Milan.
Designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana issued a video apology last year expressing their love and respect for Chinese culture.
A 2017 D&G campaign was also denounced for being culturally insensitive in China when glamorous models posed next to “impoverished” residents in poorer parts of Beijing.