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Katy Perry Is ‘Saddened’ People Are Comparing Her Shoes ‘To Painful Images’ Of Blackface

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Katie Jerkovich Entertainment Reporter
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Katy Perry said she was “saddened” when she learned about reports regarding people comparing her latest shoe line “to painful images” of blackface.

“The Rue and The Ora were part of a collection that was released last summer in 9 different colorways (black, blue, gold, graphite, lead, nude, pink, red, silver) and envisioned as a nod to modern art and surrealism,” the 34-year-old singer shared in a joint statement from her brand management company, Global Brands Group, with E! News on Tuesday. (RELATED: Ryan Seacrest Gets Caught Making Bizarre Comments To Katy Perry On A Hot Mic)

 

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“I was saddened when it was brought to my attention that it was being compared to painful images reminiscent of blackface,” she added. “Our intention was never to inflict any pain. We have immediately removed them from katyperrycollections.com.”  (RELATED: Katy Perry Accidentally Flashes ‘Idol’ Judges [VIDEO])

“Katy Perry’s vision, eye for detail and cheeky spirit give her footwear collection a distinct personality,” a statement on the Katy Perry Collections website read. “Inspired by Katy’s travels, humor and extraordinary imagination, the footwear reflect her whimsical approach towards life. Designed 100% by Katy Perry.”

The “Dark Horse” singer’s comments come on the heels of reports Monday from about how her Rue Face Slip-On Loafers and the high-heeled version called Ora Face Block Heel Sandals, being sold by Dillard’s and Walmart, were in the process of being removed from shelves after pictures of the shoes on social media raised eyebrows.

In the pictures, one shoe shown was in black the other in beige. The features on both included two blue eyes, a beige-colored nose and large red lips.