Twitter erupts after CoverGirl model makes Ebola comment

Caption

James Charles, the 17-year-old Bethlehem High School student who was named as CoverGirl makeup’s first Cover Boy, appeared Monday on “Ellen.”

COVERGIRL Katy Perry and James Charles

CoverGirl James Charles

James Charles Dickinson’s makeup and hairstyle Instagram posts.

The first ever male CoverGirl cover model James Charles is getting national attention again after tweeting Thursday that he fears an upcoming class trip to South Africa would expose him to the ebola virus. He has since apologized.

“I can’t believe we’re going to Africa today omg what if we get Ebola. James we’re fine we could’ve gotten it at chipotle last year…,” he wrote.

Charles, a make-up artist whose senior yearbook photo re-shoot last year brought him national fame before has since deleted the tweet and has followed up with several apologies.

“I am aware that the tweet was extremely offensive and degrading.” he tweeted later. “I feel awful for posting what I said. … I look forward to exploring the country and learning much more about the country and learning much more about the people and culture, because clearly I know very little and have a lot to learn.”

But some Twitter comments on Charles’ apologies called for his firing.

“I won’t be satisfied till he loses the endorsement. Fool. Ignorant.” — ‏@CoolinRoyalty

“I will no longer support your company as long as he’s on the campaign. This was stereotypical & degrading to Africa.” — @ImTheBombDotCom

In a series of tweets later on Thursday, CoverGirl responded to the outcry, “James Charles’ tweet does not represent COVERGIRL’s perspective. We agree his statements were inappropriate but appreciate that he has issued an apology.”

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