'Annie' News 2014: Target Responds To Controversial Ad After Backlash From Customers [VIDEO]
Following the news that a petition was started to ask Target to remove the controversial Annie advertisements, the superstore speaks out about the promotion.
Superstore Target Outraged Customers With Controversial 'Annie' Display
One of the most noteable changes in the remake of Annie is that she is played by African-American actress Quvenzhané Wallis. But Target decided to ignore that significant change in the advertisements for their Annie for Target girls clothing line, reported Perez Hilton on Monday.
Though the clothing accurately replicates the outfits from the movie, the models do not. In reaction to the clothing line, a Change.org petition was started that urges Target to fix their mistake by issuing an apology to Quvenzhané Wallis.
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On Tuesday, Target issued a statement to FOX411 that said at least one African-American mondel was featured in the campaign, as well as supplied a photo showing one of the African-American models.
"Girls from a variety of backgrounds were featured within the campaign, reflecting that anyone can embody the spirit and character of Annie," a store representative said.
Some customers said that Target should apologize to Annie actress Quvenzhané Wallis, or at least have included her to begin with.
"As for the involvement of Quvenzhane Wallis, we had conversations with her team about being in the campaign, but ultimately it did not come to fruition," Target stated. "Fortunately, we had the pleasure of working with Ms. Wallis a number of times, including appearances at Target's sales meeting in September and a launch event in New York City in November. We had a great experience working with Ms. Wallis and appreciate her efforts in promoting this collection."
The creator of the petition, LaSean Rinique quickly responded to Target's statement: "I appreciate the time taken to respond; however, if they feel that 'anyone' could embody the spirit of Annie....where is our face? We figured that Ms. Quvenzhane could not model for the line; however a reasonable facsimile of Ms. Wallis would have been nice!"
