Draya Michele, the renowned star of Basketball Wives LA, recently drew significant criticism on social media when she decided to promote her air purifier during the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. This controversial video not only sparked backlash from viewers but also prompted a response from the air purifier company involved, highlighting the sensitivity of promoting products in times of crisis.

Following the release of Michele’s video, social media platforms erupted with various opinions about her choice of timing and messaging. Users expressed their feelings in a multitude of posts, showcasing how the public reacts to celebrity endorsements, especially during tragic events.

Draya Michele’s Air Purifier Promotion During LA Wildfires Raises Eyebrows

The popular media personality shared a video where she unboxed and set up an air purifier from the brand, Sereniby. This action led to a wave of backlash from social media users, who questioned her motives and the appropriateness of her timing in light of the ongoing crisis. Many felt that promoting a product during such distressing circumstances came off as insensitive.

In her Instagram post, Draya Michele accompanied the video with a heartfelt caption expressing her sorrow about the wildfires devastating Los Angeles. She stated, “While the unimaginable is happening with the fires in LA… air quality is so poor, toxic even.” By sharing her experience, she aimed to raise awareness about the poor air quality and the importance of clean air, especially for vulnerable groups like her children and pets. She emphasized the need for protective measures during this environmental crisis.

Michele elaborated, stating, “I’m using the @sereniby_official air purifier to ensure that my kids and pets are breathing in fresh, double-filtered air.” Additionally, she mentioned a special offer, saying customers could receive a discount of $200 if they made a purchase through the link provided in her Instagram bio. Despite her intentions, the video was met with disapproval from many Instagram users.

Although Michele has limited the comments on her post, reports from Bossip indicate that numerous netizens criticized her actions. One user noted, “Draya using the LA fires to promote an air purifier on her Instagram. Like she never does anything right. Tone deaf af,” expressing frustration over her perceived insensitivity during a natural disaster.

In the aftermath of Draya Michele’s viral post on Instagram, Sereniby, the air purifier company, felt compelled to release a public statement. They clarified that she was not “compensated for her post,” which aimed to inform others about a product she genuinely uses. According to People, the company asserted, “She and her team contacted us because she genuinely uses the product and believed it could help others dealing with the severe air quality in Los Angeles… We’re donating 10% of our January profits to the American Red Cross, and we recognize there are countless urgent needs in this crisis.” This statement aimed to mitigate the backlash and align their brand with a sense of social responsibility during a time of need.