Doritos Ends Partnership With Transgender Influencer Amid Backlash

The recent decision by Doritos Spain to part ways with transgender influencer Samantha Hudson has sparked considerable discussion, primarily surrounding the motivations behind this move. On Tuesday, Doritos confirmed that it had ended its relationship with Hudson, a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ community, but they insisted that the decision was not influenced by the transphobic backlash the campaign elicited online. This situation showcases the complex dynamics of modern marketing and social media, particularly in the context of inclusivity and representation.

Hudson was featured in a social media campaign named "Crunch Talks," which aimed to promote the Doritos brand among younger audiences. However, the campaign quickly faced criticism from right-wing and far-right groups who called for a boycott of the snack brand. This reaction was reminiscent of a previous backlash against Bud Light, which faced a similar wave of criticism after collaborating with a transgender influencer. Such incidents highlight a growing trend of online backlash against brands that align themselves with LGBTQ+ figures or causes.

In a statement to Rolling Stone, a spokesperson for Doritos Spain clarified that while the video featuring Hudson was deleted and the partnership was concluded, the motivation behind the decision was rooted in her controversial past comments that the company had been unaware of. They emphasized their commitment to condemning any forms of violence or sexism and reassured that the decision was not a reflection of Hudson’s gender identity.

Newsweek reached out to Frito Lay, which owns the Doritos brand, for further comments regarding this decision. The ongoing conversation around this incident underscores the evolving landscape of brand partnerships, especially as they relate to social issues and public sentiment.