Alice Johnson is hitting back at critics accusing Kim Kardashian West of using her to improve the image of her new shapewear line.
West, who helped convince President Trump to commute Johnson’s life sentence last year, turned heads on Friday when she released a new ad for her line SKIMS Solutionwear. The ad prominently features Johnson modeling the line and comparing her newfound freedom to the freedom she feels while wearing the shapewear.
“I call [Kardashian] my war angel, because nothing stood between her and my freedom,” Johnson says in the ad. “I was set free on June the 6th 2018, so now every moment in life is precious to me.”
Look at the most amazing model ever @AliceMarieFree Modeling for @skims launching September 10! pic.twitter.com/o7aO8YPJfa
— Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) August 30, 2019
Kardashian West’s line, originally named “Kimono,” sparked backlash and cultural appropriation accusations back in June. Some critics have since accused the reality TV star of exploiting Johnson by including her in the new ad.
“Social media users have been quick to point out that Kardashian seems to be using a woman who may feel indebted to her to improve the questionable image of her new line,” a Vice article noted, linking to a handful of examples of people slamming Kardashian West for “using” Johnson to promote the line.
Johnson, however, hit back at the notion on Twitter.
“How insulting to assume I can’t think for myself. I was very honored to be a part of Kim’s shapewear launch,” she wote. “For the record @Vice, I’ve always referred to Kim as my war angel!!!”
You’re EXACTLY right. How insulting to assume I can’t think for myself. I was very honored to be a part of Kim’s shapewear launch. For the record @Vice, I’ve always referred to Kim as my war angel!!! https://t.co/nH78ICNMtA
— Alice Marie Johnson (@AliceMarieFree) August 30, 2019
Johnson was released from prison last summer as she was serving a life sentence without parole for a first-time drug-related offense. The president’s commutation followed a White House meeting with Kardashian West to discuss the matter. Johnson has since called Kardashian West’s help a “miracle.”
