Travis Scott Expresses Love for LGBTQ Community After Transgender Model Removed From ‘Astroworld’ Album Cover

Travis Scott’s new Astroworld album had a bit of controversy before it was even released concerning a transgender model’s image reportedly being scrubbed from the final version of the racy alternate cover art the rapper revealed on his Instagram page. On Saturday afternoon (Aug. 4), the “Sicko Mode” MC decided to address the issue, revealing his plans to place the unused photos in a separate project he has coming.

La Flame debuted two covers for the album just days before its release that were created in conjunction with famed photographer David LaChapelle. One shows kids outside of a theme park that’s entrance consists of a golden inflatable Travis Scott head. The other is more NSFW and shows multiple naked women in front of a similar setting.

After seeing the cover, transgender model Amanda Lepore, who was part of the photo shoot and appeared bent over next to the inflatable La Flame, spoke up about her presence being removed in the final version Travis posted.

“It was great being part of @david_lachapelle s incredible photograph of @travisscott s albulm cover but I’m curious why I’m not on the picture @travisscott posted 💋❤️💄,” Lepore captioned the version of the artwork that she is included in on Instagram. “A girl can’t help it❗️Too distracting for the eyes ❗️Upstaged everyone in the photograph ❗️Oh well........... I love @david_lachapelle and @travisscott ❗️Love and kisses 💋❤️💄.”

Following some criticism from the LGBTQ community, Travis cleared the air on Saturday. “Thank you David LaChappelle [sic] and Amanda Lepore and everyone who came out to make all the covers and vision come to life,” he wrote on Instagram. “Astroworld is about love and expression not hate. This is very important for me to speak about: Growing up I’ve been taught to accept everyone, not to cast people away but bring them in your home. I have nothing but respect for the LGBTQ community. I want to use my voice to make it clear that everyone on this planet is as equal and fucking awesome as the next. Me and LaChappelle set out to create images that I grew up watching him create for years that inspire me today."

Speaking to Amanda directly, he noted that all the images from the shoot would be published at a later date in an upcoming photo booklet.“Yo Amanda you did upstage everyone even me and I can’t wait for everyone to see the booklet that me and Dave put together that includes all these images,” he added. “Thank you for being apart of it. Sorry for the misunderstanding love you guys and thank you all. Everyone is welcome to Astroworld.”

Check out Travis’ statement below.

See Photos of Travis Scott's Different Looks Over the Years