The Football Association recently made a decision to pull a new online cookery series in collaboration with M&S due to recent events involving British YouTuber and rapper Yung Filly. The series, titled “The Greater Game,” was launched to promote healthy eating and positive influence among children aged 12 to 16. It featured England stars Bukayo Saka, Ezri Konsa, and Jarrod Bowen in a “Freestyle Cooking” series on the FA’s YouTube channel.
However, the decision to pull the series came after Yung Filly, whose real name is Andres Felipe Valencia Barrientos, faced serious allegations. While touring in Australia, he was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including sexual assault and bodily harm. Despite appearing in court and being granted conditional bail, the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Yung Filly, known for his work on various TV shows and social media platforms, has a significant following online. The FA promptly removed the videos featuring him, and it was clarified that M&S did not have a direct endorsement deal with the YouTuber. Both M&S and Yung Filly’s representatives have yet to comment on the situation.
The controversy surrounding the decision to pull the cookery series highlights the challenges faced by organizations when dealing with unforeseen circumstances involving public figures. While the initial intention of the series was to promote positive messages about healthy eating, the allegations against Yung Filly have shifted the focus and raised concerns about the impact on the audience, especially young viewers.
In light of these events, it is essential for organizations to conduct thorough background checks and due diligence when partnering with influencers and public figures. The case involving Yung Filly serves as a reminder of the potential risks involved in such collaborations and the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of the audience, especially when targeting a younger demographic.
Moving forward, it will be crucial for the FA and other organizations to reassess their partnerships and ensure that they align with their values and objectives. By taking proactive measures to address issues as they arise and prioritize transparency and accountability, organizations can maintain their credibility and uphold their commitment to promoting positive messages and behaviors among their audiences.
