Kate Upton Takes on Paul Marciano: A #MeToo Statement
Kate Upton, the former Guess icon and Sports‑Illustrated cover star, publicly called out Paul Marciano—the co‑founder and long‑time chief creative officer of Guess—for sexual harassment. She didn’t name a specific incident, but her tweet made it clear that the brand should not be putting up a figurehead who is alleged to engage in misconduct.
What Happened?
- Upton’s tweet: “It’s disappointing that such an iconic women’s brand @Guess is still empowering Paul Marciano as their creative director #MeToo.”
- The message landed well in the wake of the worldwide #MeToo movement that reshaped the entertainment and fashion worlds.
- Marciano, the man behind Guess since 1981, has been the company’s executive chairman since 2015.
Why This Matters
When a star like Upton uses her platform to address alleged harassment, it gives a human face to the movement. Fans who have followed her career—from her early days as a working model to her breakout role with Guess in 2011—now see her as an outspoken ally for safer workplaces.
Facts About Kate Upton
- Age: 25
- Married to MLB star Justin Verlander
- Spokesmodel for Guess in 2011, sharing the mantle with names like Claudia Schiffer and Gigi Hadid
- Known for her recurring presence in Sports Illustrated swimsuit editions
Given the Media Buzz
It’s never easy for a brand to navigate names and reputations in a high‑profile scenario like this. Yet Guess’s history of iconic partnership—starting with the first “Guess” commercials in 1981—has always been intertwined with the personalities behind the brand. This latest controversy underscores the importance of accountability, regardless of glamour and fame.
