Kim Kardashian faced a wave of online criticism on Tuesday as trolls bombarded her social media accounts over advertisements she shared for her latest business venture. The reality TV star, 45, was accused of digitally altering her appearance in images from a photoshoot for the caffeine-free energy drink brand, Update, which she recently joined as a cofounder ahead of its relaunch.
Fans Claim Kardashian Looks Unrecognizable
Many fans expressed disbelief, stating that the photos did not "even look remotely like her." Specific allegations included blurring her true skin texture, tweaking natural facial features, altering the shape of her nose, and erasing her nasolabial folds. Some social media users on platforms like Reddit and X, formerly Twitter, speculated that the images were heavily photoshopped or even altered with artificial intelligence.
Deleted Photo Sparks Further Controversy
Kardashian seemingly deleted one particular snapshot from her Instagram after numerous fans online asked, "Who is this?" The image, which many had saved and circulated on social media, allegedly showed significant changes to her nose and lips. In Reddit threads, users debated whether the photo was "really her," with comments suggesting it appeared to be the star but "with a lot of photoshop" or "in her delusions and dreams."
Comparisons to Family Members
Some trolls noted that Kardashian resembled her youngest daughter, Chicago, more than herself in the photos. Others said she looked more like she did in her teenage years or early 20s. On X, one user tweeted, "It looks like her face is photoshopped to look like her youngest daughter," while another added, "It looks like [an] age progression for Chicago."
Background on the Business Venture
Kardashian announced her involvement with Update on Tuesday, sharing that she joined as a cofounder to assist in the brand's relaunch. She explained that her "first order of business" was changing the packaging design to be more minimalistic and "masculine," as she "loves masculine things." The energy drinks, which are caffeine-free and sugar-free, use paraxanthine instead of caffeine to avoid mood crashes, according to the product description.
Product Distribution and Details
Forbes reported that Kardashian's partnership with Update includes new packaging, reformulation, and more accessible pricing, though exact terms were not disclosed. The brand has secured a nationwide distribution agreement with Walmart, with plans to launch five flavors across 4,000 stores starting March 1. Kardashian, a billionaire businesswoman, reportedly began using the product in 2023 and offered unsolicited feedback, leading to the partnership.
Social Media Reactions and Ongoing Rumors
Rather than discussing the product, many fans focused on Kardashian's appearance, with some expressing disappointment that she "shaved all [her] ethnic features down" and praising her natural beauty. Others brought up ongoing plastic surgery rumors, despite her previous denials of any work done. Comments ranged from accusations of a "botched" nose job to claims that she was in her "botched era" due to alleged cosmetic surgery and digital alterations.
The Daily Mail has reached out to Kardashian's representative for comment, but no response has been reported at this time. This incident highlights the intense scrutiny celebrities face on social media regarding their image and business endeavors.
