Amber Rose is speaking out against Ariana Grande after the pop star promoted a nationwide protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a move Rose says shows a disconnect between wealthy celebrities and everyday Americans.
The controversy began after Grande shared an Instagram Story encouraging people to participate in a “national shutdown” on January 30 by avoiding work, school and shopping as part of a protest against ICE.
The post spread quickly online and sparked debate, especially among critics who questioned how missing work could affect families who rely on daily wages.
“ICE Out! Nationwide Shutdown! No Work. No School. No Shopping. January 30, 2026,” Grande’s post read.
Rose addressed the issue during a livestream Thursday with social media personality Sneako, where she harshly criticized the message and the privilege she believes it entails.
He argued that asking people to stop working ignores the financial realities many Americans face.
“Ariana Grande… I think she’s worth, I don’t know, $250 to $300 million, telling people not to go to work, to protest ICE. It’s like, ‘Girl, shut the fuck up,'” Rose said.
He went on to question whether wealthy celebrities should urge financial sacrifices that they themselves do not have to make.
“Do you want to give your money to these people so they can stay home from work? Stop telling people to do that… I think anyone who tells people not to go to work, not to go to school, not to buy things for their family that are worth $250 million to $300 million should shut their mouth.”
Rose also expanded the conversation to celebrity involvement in politics, referencing a recent viral moment involving Nicki Minaj and President Donald Trump.
She revealed that she personally introduced Minaj to Trump and emphasized her long friendship with the rapper.
“So I introduced them… Nicki’s been my friend for probably about 16 years, you know, I was in her first music video,” Rose said.
In defending Minaj from criticism over her political associations, Rose pointed to the rapper’s charitable work, arguing that actions matter more than political alignment.
“She promised a lot of money to help the girls… I’ll never fully understand why she’s getting criticized, because she’s helping people. Still, if you don’t agree with her political views, she’s still helping people.”
The debate surrounding ICE protests has intensified following recent deadly encounters involving federal agents.
Earlier this month, Renee Nicole Good, 37, was fatally shot during an incident with an ICE officer in Minneapolis after she allegedly swerved her vehicle toward him.
Days later, another individual, Alex Pretti, was shot and killed by federal agents on January 24.
These incidents sparked protests in Minneapolis and other parts of the country, and local leaders, including Mayor Jacob Frey, expressed criticism of ICE’s actions.
As the reactions continue to pour in, Rose’s comments highlight the growing divide over how celebrities use their platforms, especially when activism intersects with the financial realities of everyday people.
