Celebrity News

‘Hip hop-themed’ table horrifies cancer benefit guests

A benefit attended by billionaires that raised $1.2 million for charity Sunday playfully decorated tables with “dance” themes — but some were horrified that the “hip hop” and “breakdancing” tables included a figure of a grinning black man with big red lips and a boombox as well as (faux) marijuana and gold chains.

The centerpieces were part of the 32nd “Through the Kitchen” Cancer Research Institute gala, where the upper crust donned aprons to get their own grub from the kitchen at The Four Seasons restaurant.

“The other tables were done respectfully. Why did they have to put the pot on the hip hop table? Really?”

 - Observer

This year’s theme was “Celebrating the Art of Dance,” with tables reflecting styles from the can-can to flamenco.

But when images were posted online, some felt the hip hop and breakdancing tables went too far.

The hip hop one included a rapper and “weed” labeled “Sticky Icky” and “Tabacky.”

The homage also included a topless photo of LL Cool J and a giant microphone.

“The other tables were done respectfully,” said an observer. “Why did they have to put the pot on the hip hop table? Really?”

Guests included Michael Bloomberg, Ronald Lauder, Lloyd Blankfein, Leon Black, Charles Bronfman, Agnes Gund and organizer Lauren Veronis.

An event rep told us, “We deeply apologize for the unintended offense,” and, “This is a festive party known for its tongue-in-cheek humor aimed at all aspects of culture, history and New York life . . . nothing is intended to be offensive. If anyone took offense, we are deeply, deeply sorry.”

The “breakdancing” tablePatrick McMullan

He added, “Each themed table is heavily researched . . . to accurately capture the essence of the subject. The designers found an overwhelming association — propagated by the hip hop artists themselves through their lyrics — between hip hop and marijuana,” and, “The doll chosen for the table is marketed as a hip hop performer and can be purchased online. That he is ostensibly African-American is beside the point. I wonder if any offense would have been taken if the doll depicted a Caucasian performer.”

An auction included a Rao’s dinner for $14,000 and Bloomberg internships for $15,000 apiece.