One of professional basketball’s youngest celebrities sparked national debate when he posed for the cover of Vogue magazine alongside Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen. Critics say the photo of LeBron James and Bundchen is “racially insensitive” and reminiscent of King Kong holding Fay Wray. The two were selected for the annual “shape” issue which celebrates “Secrets of the Best Bodies”.

James is just the third male to ever grace the cover of Vogue and the first black man. Richard Gere appeared in 1992 and George Clooney in 2000.

“King” James (as he is affectionately called in the league) appears on the cover baring his teeth, while dribbling a basketball and wrapping his other arm around Bundchen’s waist. Some say he is standing in a “gorilla-like pose” with an angry demeanor.

One witness says, “It conjures up this idea of a dangerous black man.” Some are enraged, saying it reminds of the animalistic stereotype commonly associated with black men.

But James himself addressed the controversy saying he was, “just showing a little emotion.” He told the Cleveland Plain Dealer, “Everything my name is on is going to be criticized in a good way or bad way. Who cares what anyone says?”

Furthermore, Bundchen hardly looks frightened. She is also bearing her teeth – in a huge smile that seems to say, “I’m having a great time!”

Patrick O’Connell, spokesman for Vogue, said the magazine “sought to celebrate two superstars at the top of their game” for the magazine's annual shape issue.

“We think Lebron James and Gisele Bundchen look beautiful together and we are honored to have them on the cover,” he said.

Famed photographer Annie Leibovitz shot the two superstars for the cover and an inside spread. James is wearing typical athletic garb and portrays the attitude that has made him a sensation. He is known for his passion and emotion on the court. Bundchen is wearing a sleek, fashionable, form-fitting dress – the kind of attire that has made her a success. The two are illustrated in a light that has made each of them famous and successful in their respective fields.

The photo now has critics of the critics asking, “what if James was holding a black woman?” or “what if Bundchen had been photographed with a white athlete?” What would the reaction have been? Would there have been a reaction at all? It’s hard to say, and it’s hardly worth debating.
One reason the cover is even making headlines is because the race issue is at the core of the current presidential campaign. For the first time in history a black male is a serious contender in the primaries and race has surfaced as a hot issue once again.

Experts say it is too soon to tell whether this controversy will help or hinder magazine sales. I have a feeling Vogue will come out of this situation like “kings”.