Kylie Jenner Faces Backlash Over Vanity Fair Cover and “Blackfishing” Accusations

Kylie Jenner’s recent Vanity Fair cover and accompanying photoshoot have sparked controversy, with accusations of “blackfishing” surfacing online. The criticism centers on Jenner’s appearance in the images, specifically a perceived change in skin tone, leading to discussions about cultural appropriation and representation.

The Controversy Unfolds

The Vanity Fair photoshoot features Jenner in a variety of looks, including one where she poses in black lingerie and khaki pants while holding a cigarette . Shortly after the cover’s release, social media users began commenting on what they perceived as a significantly darker complexion than Jenner typically displays.

The term “blackfishing” has been used to describe the practice of non-Black individuals altering their appearance—through makeup, hairstyling, or photo editing—to appear Black or racially ambiguous . Critics argue that this can be harmful, as it allows individuals to benefit from the aesthetic of Blackness without experiencing the systemic discrimination faced by Black people.

Past Accusations

This is not the first time Kylie Jenner has faced such accusations. Throughout her career, she has been questioned about instances where her appearance appeared to mimic Black or Brown aesthetics .

Response from Jenner and Vanity Fair

As of March 13, 2026, neither Kylie Jenner nor Vanity Fair has publicly responded to the recent criticism. The teams involved in the photoshoot have also remained silent on the matter.

Jenner’s Hollywood Rebrand

The controversy arrives as Kylie Jenner, at 28 years old, appears to be undergoing a rebrand, aiming for a more prominent role in Hollywood . A recent Instagram reel showcasing a playful argument with friends over a bag of chips garnered significant attention, racking up nearly 65 million views , demonstrating her continued influence on social media.

Key Takeaways

• Kylie Jenner’s Vanity Fair cover has ignited a debate about “blackfishing” and cultural appropriation.
• Critics allege that Jenner’s appearance in the photoshoot features a noticeably darker skin tone.
• This is not the first time Jenner has faced accusations of altering her appearance to appear racially ambiguous.
• Neither Jenner nor Vanity Fair has publicly addressed the controversy as of March 13, 2026.