Amber Rose is speaking out against Ariana Grande after the pop star staged a nationwide protest targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a move that 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 stores as part of a protest against ICE.
The post quickly spread online and sparked debate, particularly among critics who questioned how taking time off work might affect families who rely on a daily wage.
“Ice cream over! Nationwide shutdown! No work. No school. No shopping. January 30, 2026,” Grande’s post read.
Rose addressed the issue during a live stream Thursday with social media personality Sneako, where she sharply criticized the post and the privilege she says comes with it.
She 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 million to $300 million, telling people not to go to work, protesting ICE. It’s like, ‘Girl, shut up,'” Rose said.
She then asked whether wealthy celebrities should instigate economic sacrifices that they themselves were not obligated to make.
“Will you give your money to these people to 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, and that they’re worth $250 million to $300 million, should shut up.”
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 highlighted her longtime friendship with the rapper.
“So I introduced them…Nicki has been my friend for probably about 16 years now, you know, I was in her first music video,” Rose said.
Defending Minaj against criticism over her political associations, Rose highlighted the rapper’s charitable work, arguing that actions matter more than political alignment.
“She promised a lot of money to help young girls…I’ll never really understand why she’s criticized, because she helps people. Regardless, if you don’t agree with her political views, she still helps people.”
The debate around ICE protests has intensified following recent deadly clashes involving federal agents.
Earlier this month, Renee Nicole Good, 37, was fatally shot during an incident with an ICE agent 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, with local leaders, including Mayor Jacob Frey, expressing criticism of ICE’s actions.
As reactions continue to pour in, Rose’s comments highlight the growing divide over how celebrities use their platforms, particularly when activism intersects with the financial realities of everyday people.
