Why Alicia Keys' 'Real Bodies' Marilyn Monroe Tweet Didn't Go Over So Well

Alicia Keys is having a hard time conveying messages on the internet as of late.

The singer is under fire for a photo of Marilyn Monroe she recently posted on Twitter. “Real bodies = gorgeous,” Keys’ captioned the photo of a bikini-clad Monroe. 

Problem is, Monroe had cosmetic work done and women weren’t here for the message of natural being a better standard — even though Keys didn’t directly imply that natural was better. 

Misconstrued or missed the mark? Whatever the case, this isn’t the first time the singer’s posts have been scrutinized. A couple weeks ago, she caught flack for posting a photo of artist,Ali Al Sharji on National Muslim Woman’s Day due to the controversial nature of the photo.

Sharji is pictured in niqāb, a full body traditional Muslim covering, with one leg exposed. 

Keys’ captioned the photo, “Our strength is in our differences. Our power is in our diversity. We are so beautiful. All of us. When we see each other. We see ourselves.” But social media had some thoughts about the message.

While Keys likely meant well with both of her comments, it’s clear the internet can be a tough critic. 

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Hey, everybody. I'm so thrilled to share with you a special project that I'm working on. Disney's Queen of Katwe is the true story of a girl who will stop at nothing to achieve her dream. I'm so honored to be a part of the film with my new song, Back to Life. And I know you are gonna love this. So please enjoy this special look. [MUSIC] Momma, can you do big things from such a small place? The small one can become the big one. [MUSIC] I can see your mother's strength in you. [MUSIC] You could be the best in all of Uganda. Do you know what that would mean? [MUSIC] Bye Fiona. [MUSIC] Now is the time of course. [MUSIC] I've been waiting for all of my time. Disney's Queen of Katwe, directed by Mira Nyer, featuring Alicia Keys, Back to Life an original song written for the film. Everywhere September 30. Rated PG.