As Super Bowl LVIII approaches, The New York Times is facing criticism for its recent article on Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
The publication delved into a lengthy piece about Kelce’s hairstyle, suggesting that it has gained popularity this year. However, the specific hairdo in question, a buzz cut fade, has been a prevalent choice at barbershops for years.
Jemele Hill took to social media on Friday night to express her disapproval of The New York Times’ story about Kelce. She also called out The Sporting News for its article on “Swag Surfin,” a trend resurfacing thanks to the Chiefs.
Hill criticized The New York Times, stating, “The NYT thinks that Travis Kelce invented the fade. When you have zero cultural competency on your staff, this is how you end up with stories like this, and explaining swag surfin,’ which is at least 15 or years old.”
The social media reactions suggest that Hill is not alone in her frustration over the article’s perceived lack of cultural understanding.
Travis Kelce is set to return to action on Feb. 11 against the 49ers, aiming to secure a third Super Bowl ring for his impressive résumé.