PETA in trouble for unauthorised Michelle Obama image

The anti-fur group has used a picture of the First Lady on their new campaign poster, but without asking her permission.

Michelle Obama in PETA advert - Fashion News - Marie Claire
Michelle Obama in PETA advert - Fashion News - Marie Claire
(Image credit: PETA)

The anti-fur group has used a picture of the First Lady on their new campaign poster, but without asking her permission.

Anti-fur protestors PETA decided to use an image of Michelle Obama in their latest ad campaign, but failed to get permission from the White House.

And now the fur is flying...

Their new poster features the slogan ‘fur-free and fabulous' above an image of the First Lady - alongside singer Carrie Underwood, chat show host Oprah Winfrey and supermodel Tyra Banks.

We did not consent,' was the frosty comment put forward by a White House spokesperson this morning.

PETA - the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals - has admitted to not requesting permission for the use of the picture.

Michelle Obama in PETA advert - Fashion News - Marie Claire

PETA President Ingrid Newkirk has tried to justify the move by explaining that they knew the First Lady could not officially endorse an anti-fur advert - but that they decided to use her image anyway based on White House confirmation back in June that Michelle does not wear fur.

"The fact is that Michelle Obama has issued a statement indicating that she doesn't wear fur,' says Ingrid.

The world should know that in PETA's eyes, that makes her pretty fabulous,"

The group also enraged the French President's wife Carla Bruni-Sarkozy last year, after sending her a letter accusing her of wearing fur during public appearances.

I do not wear, buy or own fur,' came Carla's response.

‘Every designer who kindly lends me clothes for public appearances can tell you that I do not accept to wear fur pieces, even when they're only a small part of the outfit.'

What do you think? Were PETA right to use the image of Michelle Obama on their poster? Let us know your thoughts in the comments box below!

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