Stormzy responds to ‘twisted narrative’ over McDonald’s collaboration

Stormzy has said brands “can’t tell me what to do” in response to a backlash over his McDonald’s collaboration and accusations he deleted a pro-Palestine social media post.

The British rapper, 31, who unveiled the Stormzy meal earlier in the month, rejected speculation that he removed the post due to his working with the chain in a post to his Instagram story on Friday.

The fast-food giant faced controversy in 2023 when McDonald’s Israel – operated by a local franchisee – announced it was providing free meals to Israeli soldiers.

Stormzy said: “Hey guys, I wanted to address some twisted narrative that has been circulating online this past week.

“Firstly, I didn’t archive the post where I came out in support of Palestine for any reason outside of me archiving loads of IG posts last year.

“In that post, I spoke about #FreePalestine, oppression and injustice and my stance on this has not changed.

“The brands I work with can’t tell me what to do and don’t tell me what to do otherwise I wouldn’t work with them.

“I do my own research on all brands I work with, gather my own information, form my own opinion and come to my own conclusion before doing business.

“I’m writing this because I know there are people out there who have supported me and rooted for me who are genuinely confused and hurt by what they think has happened and I want to give those people clarity so I hope this helps.

“I understand it must feel disappointing and disheartening when it seems like someone you’ve championed has compromised their beliefs for commercial gain but this isn’t the case here.

“Social media and the internet quickly pass judgment without full context. While I want to continue to be open and honest, I prefer not to respond immediately to every misunderstanding or clear up every false narrative that surrounds my name.”

The controversy prompted a response from the Peace And Justice Project, founded by former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who said the collaboration was “hugely disappointing.”

Stormzy urged fans to vote for Mr Corbyn in the 2019 election and he has been a vocal critic of the Conservative Party across the years.

Online posts show stickers that reportedly appeared around McDonald’s drive-thrus in the capital, reading: “We regret to inform you that Stormzy has sold out. Apologies for any disappointment.”

It comes as Hamas and Israel continue to free Israelis and Palestinians under the terms of the ceasefire.

Customers in the Middle East were angered after McDonald’s Israel provided free meals and in response, some franchisees, such as McDonald’s Oman, announced donations to relief efforts in Gaza.

McDonald’s president and chief executive Chris Kempczinski previously said in a LinkedIn post: “We abhor violence of any kind and firmly stand against hate speech, and we will always proudly open our doors to anyone.”

McDonald’s has been approached for comment.