Michael B. Jordan Apologizes for New Rum Brand's Controversial Name

The 34-year-old "Black Panther" star said that the brand will be renamed in light of the outcry

michael b jordan
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Michael B. Jordan is addressing concerns expressed by Nicki Minaj and other social media users over the name of his rum brand.

On Tuesday, June 22, the "Black Panther" actor took to his Instagram Story to apologize for calling his new rum brand "J'Ouvert" after accusations that the name appropriated Caribbean culture.

"I just wanna say on behalf of myself & my partners, our intention was never to offend or hurt a culture (we love & respect) & hoped to celebrate & shine a positive light on," Jordan wrote. "Last few days has been a lot of listening. A lot of learning & engaging in countless community conversations..."

The 34-year-old "Creed" star went on to explain that the brand will be renamed in light of the outcry.

"We hear you," he continued. "I hear you & want to be clear that we are in the process of renaming. We sincerely apologize & look forward to introducing a brand we can all be proud of."

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Scrutiny of the brand began after Jordan's girlfriend, Lori Harvey, posted images from an apparent launch party for J'Ouvert rum over the weekend and congratulated him on the new business venture, according to screenshots shared online.

The name J'Ouvert originates from the French jour ouvert, meaning day break or morning, and signals the start of Carnival. It is celebrated in many Caribbean islands, including Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada, and observed around the world where Caribbean people have migrated.

Among the social media users voicing their issues with the name was Nicki Minaj, who is Trinidadian. Earlier Tuesday, she reposted a message about the event's cultural significance and urged the actor to rename his rum.

"I'm sure MBJ didn't intentionally do anything he thought Caribbean ppl would find offensive," the rapper wrote. "but now that you are aware, change the name & continue to flourish & prosper."

Progressive racial justice organization Color of Change is collaborating with Michael B. Jordan to effect meaningful change in Hollywood behind the camera.
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