Key Takeaways:
– Pop icon Madonna experiences backlash for including Luther Vandross in an HIV/AIDS tribute.
– Vandross’ estate promptly objected, as the singer didn’t succumb to an AIDS-related illness, but complications from a stroke.
– After consideration, Madonna removed Vandross’ image from the tribute.
Madonna, infamous “Material Girl” of pop, was involved in an unfortunate tribute mix-up during her recent “Celebration” world tour stop in Sacramento. The popstar’s attempt at creating a heartfelt moment stirred up controversy when she included an image of late R&B star Luther Vandross in an HIV/AIDS tribute, despite his cause of death being unrelated to the disease.
Misinformation Sparks Backlash
Madonna’s tribute, held during her Saturday concert, demonstrated recognition for individuals who lost their lives to AIDS-related complications. Images of different cultural icons, such as fashion photographer Herb Ritts, Queen’s lead Freddie Mercury, and pop art painter Keith Haring, flashed across the screen as Madonna sang her 1986 track “Live to Tell.”
However, the inclusion of Vandross in the tribute was met with immediate reproof as his death in 2005 was due to complications from a stroke, not AIDS.
Vandross Estate Takes Prompt Action
An official spokesperson for Vandross’ estate, vocal about this misinformation, contacted the pop superstar’s team to request that Vandross be removed from the tribute.
“Luther Vandross passed away in 2005 due to complications from a stroke suffered two years earlier,” the statement clarified. “We appreciate Madonna’s recognition of those lives lost to AIDS but Luther was NEVER diagnosed with AIDS or the HIV virus.” The estate added that they were unsure where Madonna and her team got such invalid medical information.
Madonna Responds, Image Removed from Tribute**
Upon hearing this, Madonna promptly removed Vandross’ picture from the tribute according to celebrity news website, TMZ.
In his lifetime, Vandross faced numerous speculations concerning his sexuality and variable weight in the 1980s, when his solo career gained traction. He even took legal action against a British music magazine in 1985 for attributing his significant weight loss to AIDS.
Following a critical stroke in 2003, the “Dance With My Father” singer passed away of a heart attack on July 1, 2005, at age 54. Today, Vandross’ story is captured in a documentary produced by Jamie Foxx that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January.
While Madonna’s well-intended tribute met with unexpected controversy, her swift action to address the Vandross estate’s concerns demonstrates a conscious step towards maintaining the integrity of her tribute to AIDS victims. As the popstar continues her world tour, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accuracy in public tributes, especially those related to sensitive topics such as HIV/AIDS.