Audrey Hepburn’s son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, has spoken out after Ivanka Trump sparked outrage with her tribute to the Hollywood icon at the inauguration. The backlash came after Ivanka wore a recreation of Audrey’s famous 1954 Givenchy gown at the Liberty Ball in Washington, D.C., igniting a debate about her family’s political ties.
Ivanka, 43, joined her husband Jared Kushner, 44, for a romantic dance, stunning in the black-and-white gown. The strapless dress, originally worn by Audrey in the 1954 film Sabrina, was paired with black gloves and a floral diamond necklace. A contrast to Audrey’s simple, elegant styling. The White House later stated that Ivanka was “honored” to pay homage to Audrey, a long-time personal inspiration.
Sean Hepburn Ferrer’s response to the tribute
Sean, 64, responded to the tribute in a candid interview with DailyMail.com. He said, “It’s no surprise Ivanka chose to honor my mother. Growing up in a family surrounded by her legacy, it makes sense she’d look to Audrey for a symbol of elegance and class.”
He also reflected on the strong ties between the Hepburn and Trump families. Noting that Ivanka’s stepmother, Marla Maples, was once involved with the Audrey Hepburn Children’s Fund. The connection runs deeper, with Ivanka’s mother, Ivana Trump, having been close to Audrey’s lifelong friend, Rofredo Gaetani.
Audrey’s legacy and political stance
Despite acknowledging the tribute, Sean made it clear that his late mother’s values were at odds with the political views of President Donald Trump. He suggested that Audrey’s politics would have aligned more with Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations and the progressive stance of Bishop Marianne Budde, rather than the right-wing policies associated with the Trump administration.
Audrey was a UNICEF ambassador and dedicated her life to advocating for children in need. She fought for the disenfranchised worldwide. Sean pointed out that Audrey would have championed the rights of vulnerable children, regardless of their political environment. He also commented on the heated backlash, stating that Ivanka’s choice of attire, despite its intention to honor Audrey, did not reflect the late star’s humanitarian values.
Backlash over Ivanka’s fashion choice
The backlash against Ivanka’s tribute was swift. Many fans of Audrey Hepburn took to social media, criticizing the First Daughter for what they saw as an inappropriate homage. “This is gross,” wrote one commenter on Reddit. “Audrey was a rebel against the very political movement. That Ivanka’s father supports.” Another user added, “Audrey would be horrified by this. Especially given her work with UNICEF and her own history during World War II.”
A legacy of grace and humanitarian work
Audrey Hepburn’s legacy as a symbol of grace and humanitarianism is undeniable. Born in 1929, she lived through the trauma of World War II, even working as a courier for the Dutch resistance. The effects of the war stayed with her, influencing her lifelong commitment to UNICEF’s mission to aid children suffering from poverty and conflict. Her life was a blend of Hollywood glamour and activism, a balance that made her a beloved global figure.
Throughout her career, Audrey was nominated for five Oscars and won the Best Actress award in 1953 for her performance in Roman Holiday. In 1992, she received the US Presidential Medal of Freedom for her tireless work with UNICEF. Audrey passed away in 1993 from abdominal cancer, but her influence endures, especially in the world of fashion and philanthropy.
Her two sons, Sean and Luca Dotti, 54, continue to honor their mother’s legacy. While Sean spoke out on Ivanka’s tribute, he also acknowledged the lasting impact Audrey’s work has had across generations and countries. “Her elegance, rooted in her inner beauty, remains a reference point for many in today’s world,” he said.
Audrey Hepburn’s legacy in modern politics and fashion
The controversy surrounding Ivanka’s fashion choice only underscores the tension between the Hepburn family’s values and the political environment. Many feel Audrey’s legacy should remain untarnished by the current political landscape. While others see Ivanka’s tribute as a personal homage to an icon.
As Audrey Hepburn’s influence grows even today. Her legacy serves as both a symbol of elegance and a reminder of the importance of fighting for the disadvantaged. Whether or not Ivanka’s choice to wear the Givenchy gown was well-intentioned. The debate over her tribute proves one thing: Audrey Hepburn’s memory continues to stir passion and discussion, transcending time, politics, and fashion.
