Model and actress Winnie Harlow has spoken out after sparking online controversy with her Halloween costume inspired by Whitney Houston’s 2001 BET Awards appearance. What was meant as a heartfelt tribute to the late music icon quickly turned into a viral debate, with many social media users accusing the model of poor taste.
For Halloween, Harlow—born Chantelle Whitney Brown-Young—transformed into the Pop legend during her iconic appearance at the BET Awards, where Houston received the ceremony’s first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award. Winnie wore a similar Roberto Cavalli-inspired gown, complete with the voluminous curls and golden glow that defined Whitney’s look that night. She even recreated the singer’s playful gestures and jubilant dance across the stage in a short skit posted online.
While many fans applauded the model for her detailed homage, others criticized her for what they perceived as an attempt to mock one of Houston’s more controversial public moments. The original clip of the singer accepting her award has often resurfaced online, with some believing she appeared to be under the influence during the broadcast.
As the debate gained traction, Harlow took to Instagram to clear the air and defend her intent.
“Firstly, majority of the responses have been incredibly positive. I’ve loved seeing you guys love these Halloween looks,” she wrote to her 9.9 million followers. “My video wasn’t mocking Whitney; that clip has always been one of my favorite moments of hers. She was radiant, funny, confident, and captivating. She was being awarded. The way she moved across that stage with flair and swag? Iconic.”
Harlow emphasized that her goal was to celebrate Houston’s legendary charisma, not to exploit a vulnerable moment. “I love Whitney,” she continued. “She’s one of the greatest to ever do it. I wanted to honor her energy and spirit, not make fun of her.”
The 29-year-old model’s statement has since reignited conversation about how fans interpret tributes to late stars. While some insist that recreating such a sensitive moment toes the line of respect, others have come to Winnie’s defense, calling her portrayal “a love letter” to one of music’s most magnetic performers.
In addition to her BET Awards recreation, Harlow also paid tribute to Houston’s iconic “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” era, sharing photos and clips that celebrated the singer’s joyful, carefree side. The dual homage showcased both the grace and exuberance that made Whitney an enduring cultural figure.
As the conversation unfolds online, one thing remains clear: Winnie Harlow’s homage has kept Whitney Houston’s legacy in the spotlight yet again—reminding fans of just how deeply the singer continues to influence music, fashion, and pop culture decades after her passing.
