Michelle Williams' Native American-Style Photo Doesn't Have "Racist Subtext," Claims AnOther Magazine

Actress wears dark braided wig, feathers in controversial shot

By Rebecca Macatee Mar 13, 2013 8:56 PMTags
E! Placeholder Image

Michelle Williams may portray the universally beloved Glinda the good witch in her latest flick, but one costume she donned for a recent photoshoot has turned out to be more divisive. 

The Oz the Great and Powerful star is featured in AnOther magazine dressed as what appears to be a Native American character. While the British mag claims no racial insensitivity was intended with the photo, some have felt it to be offensive. Recently, the use of Native American imagery for a No Doubt video and a Victoria's Secret fashion show has also raised outcries.

In the black-and-white shot, Michelle wears a long, black braided wig and feathers in her hair and around her neck. AnOther said in a statement that while they "recognize the seriousness of this debate, the image in question in no way intends to mimic, trivialise or stereotype any particular ethnic group or culture."

The mag noted that the image in question is one of eight featured in the magazine that present the actress as "different imaginary characters," going on to explain that "all the characters in the story were inspired by multiple fashion and cultural references, characters and eras, as well as by our admiration of Ms. Williams as one of the most respected and talented actresses of her generation."

The statement concluded, "While we dispute the suggestion that the image has a racist subtext in the strongest possible terms, we're mortified to think that anyone would interpret it that way."

What do you think about this controversial photo? Let us know in the comments. 

—Reporting by Holly Passalaqua