Huda Beauty Cuts Ties with Huda Mustafa Following Livestream Racial Slur Controversy

Huda Beauty has ended its partnership with reality TV star Huda Mustafa. The decision came after a controversial Instagram Live stream. During the stream, a racial slur was used against her ‘Love Island USA’ co-star, Olandria Carthen. Mustafa’s initial reaction to the slur sparked widespread online backlash.

The cosmetics brand announced the move on its official Instagram page. It stated the company was “deeply upset” by the incident. This swift action underscores the brand’s zero-tolerance policy towards racism.

Details of the Controversial Livestream

The incident occurred during a live video featuring Mustafa and her boyfriend, Louis Russell. A fan called into the stream and used a racial slur directed at Olandria Carthen. A clip obtained by TMZ shows the couple appearing startled before briefly laughing.

They ended the call quickly. Russell was heard saying, “Whoa, hey, hey.” Their initial reaction, particularly the brief laughter, was immediately criticized. Many viewers felt they did not take the hateful language seriously enough.

Public Apology and Brand Response

Mustafa later addressed the backlash on her Instagram Stories. She insisted they did not initially understand what was said. She stated she does not condone such language in any form.

She issued a longer, direct apology to Carthen. Mustafa called the slur “ignorant” and acknowledged the pain it causes. She described her own reaction as a “nervous, uncomfortable” response.

Huda Beauty’s statement confirmed the end of the partnership. The brand said it takes “all forms of racism very seriously.” It also acknowledged that the incident hurt many in its community and team.

Broader Impact and Industry Reckoning

This event highlights the immediate consequences for public figures in the digital age. Brands are increasingly vigilant about the values associated with their partners. Accountability is now a non-negotiable expectation from consumers.

The situation shows how quickly public opinion can influence corporate decisions. Social media platforms amplify both mistakes and demands for action. For global brands, protecting their reputation and community trust is paramount.

The termination of Huda Beauty’s collaboration with Huda Mustafa sends a clear message about corporate accountability. Brands are prioritizing their values and audience trust above all else in an increasingly conscious market.

Info at your fingertips

What did Huda Mustafa apologize for?

She apologized for her initial reaction to a racial slur used against her co-star. Mustafa stated her response was a nervous, uncomfortable laugh, not an endorsement of the language. She directly apologized to Olandria Carthen for the incident.

Why did Huda Beauty drop Huda Mustafa?

The brand ended the partnership due to Mustafa’s actions during the live stream. Huda Beauty stated it takes racism very seriously and found the events deeply upsetting. The decision was made to uphold its values and respect its community.

How did Olandria Carthen respond to the incident?

Carthen called the use of the slur “unacceptable” in an Instagram Story. She emphasized that such words carry generations of pain. She stated she would use the moment to call for real accountability and awareness.

What was Louis Russell’s involvement?

Louis Russell was present with Mustafa during the Instagram Live stream. He was also seen reacting to the fan’s call. He was heard saying “Whoa, hey, hey” before the call was ended.

Has Huda Beauty removed all related content?

Yes, the brand confirmed it removed all partnership content. This includes social media posts and in-store displays featuring Huda Mustafa. The separation from the influencer appears to be complete.

Trusted Sources

TMZ, Instagram, Huda Beauty Official Statement