Naomi Campbell's Latest Ban: A History Of Controversy

Following a three-year investigation into the financial activities of "Fashion for Relief," the Charity Commission, which registers and regulates charities in England and Wales, said it had found "multiple instances of misconduct and/or mismanagement," and that only 8.5 per cent of the charity's overall expenditure went on charitable grants in a six-year period from 2016.

It said that thousands of pounds worth of charity funds were used to pay for a luxury hotel stay in Cannes, France, for Campbell as well as spa treatments, room service and even cigarettes. The regulator sought explanations from the trustees but said no evidence was provided to back up their explanation that hotel costs were typically covered by a donor to the charity, therefore not costing the charity.

Campbell, 54, said she was "extremely concerned" by the findings of the regulator and that an investigation on her part was underway.

"I was not in control of my charity, I put the control in the hands of a legal employer," she said in response to a question from the AP after being named a knight in France's Order of Arts and Letters at the country's culture ministry for her contribution to French culture. "We are investigating to find out what and how, and everything I do and every penny I ever raised goes to charity."

She has been disqualified as a trustee for nine years. The other trustee, Veronica Chou, was barred for four years.

"Trustees are legally required to make decisions that are in their charity's best interests and to comply with their legal duties and responsibilities," said Tim Hopkins, deputy director for specialist investigations and standards. "Our inquiry has found that the trustees of this charity failed to do so, which has resulted in our action to disqualify them."

Throughout her career, Campbell has been involved in several highly publicized incidents that have sparked debate and discussion. Perhaps the most notorious of these was her legal troubles regarding accusations of assault. In 2007, she was convicted of assaulting her housekeeper with a mobile phone, leading to a probation sentence and community service. This incident was emblematic of Campbell’s fiery temperament, which often overshadowed her professional achievements.

Further controversies arose from her connections to high-profile figures. Her relationship with billionaire businessman Vladislav Doronin and former ties to the late Liberian president Charles Taylor raised eyebrows, inviting scrutiny into her personal life. Critics argued that her associations revealed a troubling pattern of choices that blurred the lines between personal and political.

The media's portrayal of Campbell has also played a significant role in shaping public perception. Often depicted as a diva or difficult personality, she has faced a level of scrutiny that seems disproportionate compared to her peers. This coverage has prompted discussions about race and gender bias in how women, particularly women of color, are represented in the media. Critics argue that this narrative diminishes her achievements and reduces her to a caricature rather than a multifaceted individual.

Despite these controversies, Campbell has worked to redefine her narrative. In recent years, she has become an advocate for diversity in the fashion industry, using her platform to speak out against racism and inequality. Her involvement in various charitable initiatives and efforts to mentor young models showcase a commitment to fostering change in an industry that has often marginalized voices like hers.

Additionally, Campbell has opened up about her struggles, including her battles with self-esteem and mental health. By sharing her story, she has humanized the often-glamorous world of fashion, encouraging others to embrace their imperfections and advocate for themselves.

Her legacy is undeniably complex. She embodies both the triumphs and tribulations of a Black woman in a challenging industry. While her controversies have often overshadowed her accomplishments, they also serve as a reflection of broader societal issues regarding race, gender, and the media's role in shaping narratives.