Kim Kardashian has sparked controversy after unveiling a futuristic photoshoot for Perfect Magazine, featuring Tesla’s Cybertruck and Optimus robot. The reality star and business mogul shared the images on Instagram, drawing mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.
The Perfect Magazine Photoshoot: A High-Tech Aesthetic
The striking shoot, reportedly conducted in Malibu in November 2024, features Kardashian in a sleek, cybernetic-inspired setting. One of the most talked-about images shows her reclining on a bed by a rocky coastline under the night sky, with Tesla’s humanoid Optimus robot standing nearby.
In an interview with Perfect Magazine’s Michael Holden, Kardashian acknowledged the irony of posing alongside a robotic figure.
“I think the big joke of me even doing the shoot with the robot is that I feel like I’m so robotic.”
The futuristic theme, paired with Tesla’s cutting-edge technology, was meant to showcase a bold, avant-garde vision. However, rather than being celebrated for its innovation, the campaign has ignited a wave of criticism.
Why the Backlash? The Tesla Controversy
Kardashian’s collaboration with Elon Musk’s Tesla has come at a controversial time. Critics have pointed to Musk’s mounting scandals, including:
- Declining Tesla sales and stock troubles, raising concerns about the company’s stability.
- Political controversies, including Musk’s ties to former President Donald Trump.
- A widely criticized salute by Musk at a recent event, which some have compared to a Nazi gesture.
According to The New York Times, public dissatisfaction with Musk has escalated, particularly in response to his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and his alleged political maneuvers. Many are now questioning why Kardashian—an outspoken advocate for criminal justice reform—would align herself with Musk at such a turbulent time.
Kim Kardashian and Tesla: A Growing Connection
Kardashian’s ties to Tesla are not new. According to Business Insider, she purchased a Cybertruck in February 2024, months before Trump’s highly controversial White House event, where Tesla vehicles were prominently displayed on the South Lawn. The event was widely interpreted as a political favor to Musk.
Additionally, Kardashian has openly admired Tesla’s advancements. In November 2024, around the time of her Perfect Magazine shoot, she posted videos of herself interacting with the Optimus robot on social media.
The Bigger Debate: Celebrity Endorsements and Political Alignments
Kardashian has yet to respond to the backlash, but the controversy raises larger questions about the intersections of celebrity culture, corporate ethics, and political influence.
As Tesla faces growing scrutiny, Kardashian’s association with the brand has only fueled public debate. Some argue that her star power can help shield brands from controversy, while others believe celebrity endorsements can further deepen societal divides.
With public perception of Musk shifting, Kardashian’s latest photoshoot may be more than just a fashion statement—it’s a reflection of the ongoing tension between pop culture, technology, and politics.