The Spirit Airlines worker at the centre of James Charles’ recent GoFundMe controversy has shared the alleged apology he sent her and said she “doesn’t accept it”.
ICYMI, James was swept up in a scandal this week when he shared a video telling Amber Lendof Vargas, who was recently laid-off from the airline, to “get a job” after she reached out to him with a GoFundMe link to ask for financial help.
“You know what else would help you? Getting another job. Try that,” Charles said in the video, which was quickly deleted. “You didn’t because you’re a lazy piece of sh*t and you’re entitled and you think influencers and celebrities should fund your life for you.”
Though James already shared an apology video with his fans — describing his words as “stupid”, “obnoxious”, “rude” and "privileged" — the woman on the receiving end of the rant has now come forward with her own response.
Taking to TikTok overnight, Amber — who was one of thousands of Spirit Airlines workers sacked in a recent round of lay-offs — said “I do not accept his apology”.
“Hell no, especially because he was very public with what he said, and [he] thought it was ok to message me privately,” Amber said in the clip.
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She then shared a screenshot of the DM James sent apologising for his “disgraceful and completely unnecessary” video.
“I’m so sorry for adding to what was already a distressing time,” James wrote. “I’m so ashamed [not] only the video, but also for being so disgustingly out of touch”.
James added that he had been “reading stories from real people about what it’s actually like losing a job” and said he had donated to Amber’s original GoFundMe.
“Also, fully understand if you never want to hear from me again. I genuinely wish you all the best and hope you’re doing ok,” the influencer concluded.
It was seemingly lost on Amber, who said in her response video that James “apologised in private after embarrassing me publicly”.
“Some damage doesn’t disappear just because you finally feel guilty. I heard the apology. I just don’t accept it,” she added.
It’s far from the only social media storm James has weathered throughout his career, with the YouTuber being embroiled in underage texting scandals, an infamous feud with Tati Westbrook, and a much-derided trip to Australia.
Lead images: TikTok
