In 2019, a beauty giant cut ties with a famous influencer after a scandal involving her parents exploded online. The collaboration was dropped almost overnight, leaving people wondering: What kind of agreement did they have in place? Could companies legally walk away that fast? Were there any protections for either side? The exact details notwithstanding, this moment became a case study in why influencer contracts matter. A well-written legal document can include r eputation clauses, clear deliverables, exit terms, a confidentiality clause, and usage rights.
Recently, consumers of cosmetics brand E.L.F. Cosmetics were upset because the brand posted an ad featuring comedian Matt Rife. In his Netflix special a few years ago, Rife made a joke about domestic violence that many women found distasteful. For consumers, seeing Rife in an ad with a brand they love and use - and one that is often touted for its commitment to inclusion felt like it was a betrayal of their brand values.