“Very disappointed”: Piers Morgan accuses Beyoncé of culturally appropriating Marilyn Monroe in new Levi’s ad

Beyoncé’s new Levi’s campaign has got people talking, but not all for the right reasons. While many admired her glamorous, retro look, Piers Morgan didn’t hold back. The British commentator called her out for “culturally appropriating” Marilyn Monroe, and naturally, the internet exploded.

The ad shows Beyoncé channeling classic 1950s Hollywood soft curls, red lips, and a look that is a clear nod to Monroe’s iconic style.

But Morgan's reaction was a post on X, stating he was,

“very disappointed”

to see Beyoncé using Monroe’s image in this way.

Piers Morgan accuses Beyoncé of cultural appropriation

It all kicked off with the Levi's ad campaign post. In typical Piers Morgan fashion, the commentator didn’t mince his words, and it instantly triggered a wave of reactions. Some stood by him, saying the ad crossed a line. Others rushed to Beyoncé’s defense, calling it nothing more than a tribute.

The Levi’s campaign leans heavily into the old-school glam look Monroe was known for. Think Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Piers Morgan seems to take issue with borrowing from a figure he views as culturally specific to white Hollywood history. This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Beyoncé. Over the years, she has constantly drawn from different historical eras and figures, often blending references into her own unique expression. Her Renaissance era sparked similar debates, though many fans saw that project as a celebration of queer Black culture. This time, though, it’s Monroe, and it has stirred up a whole new argument.

As of yet, Beyoncé hasn’t responded to Piers Morgan’s criticism. Neither have her reps nor Levi’s. Social media is now divided. Is it homage, or is it tone-deaf? And who really gets to decide?

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At the end of the day, this debate isn’t just about one ad. It taps into bigger questions about inspiration, ownership, and how pop culture recycles its icons. Beyoncé has always been a master at taking influence and turning it into something powerful. Whether this campaign missed the mark or not depends on who you ask.

But one thing’s for sure: if the goal was to make people stop, look, and talk, mission accomplished.

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