Kim Kardashian Reflects on 2010 Photoshoot with Justin Bieber

Kim Kardashian recently opened up about a controversial photoshoot she did with then-teen Justin Bieber in 2010—one she now says probably “should’ve got her canceled.”

During a new interview, she expressed regret for participating in an Elle magazine spread where the 29-year-old Kardashian and 16-year-old Bieber posed in beach scenes that had flirtatious overtones, inspired by the film The Graduate.

What Happened Then

Back in 2010, Elle published a shoot featuring Kim Kardashian and teenage pop star Justin Bieber. The concept borrowed from The Graduate, casting Kardashian in a Mrs. Robinson-type role, with loose flirtation, beach walks, and romantic glances. At the time, the shoot did generate some chatter, but it was accepted by much of the public as part of celebrity culture.

Kim now says she finds parts of the concept “odd,” and questions who approved it in the first place. She noted that Bieber’s parents and his then-girlfriend were present, and that nothing “creepy” occurred during the shoot—but nevertheless feels that, in retrospect, it was inappropriate.

Kardashian’s Reaction Now

On the Call Her Daddy podcast, Kardashian acknowledged that the concept didn’t align with modern standards. She said:

“I don’t know who approved this, and I don’t know who thought that this was normal, this narrative.”
“Back then, none of us thought it was odd. Now, I look back and I’m like, that would have not been the most appropriate thing.”

She also added that she’s aware this is something people will criticize her for, and admitted she could’ve been “canceled” over it. She seemed genuinely reflective, not defensive, suggesting that her perception has evolved.

Why This Holds Up Now

The controversy highlights how cultural norms have shifted over time. What might have passed without much scrutiny in 2010 becomes subject to far more critical evaluation today—especially when teenagers are involved in suggestive or adult-styled visuals.

Also, it raises questions about responsibility: who decides what concepts are allowed, who signs off on what feels appropriate, and how much the people involved push back. Kim pointed out that the idea came from a narrative approved by others, but she’s owning her part in the decision now.

Finally, this moment adds to a larger conversation about how we look back at media from past decades. As societal awareness around issues of consent, power imbalance, and representation grows, celebrity decisions are being revisited under new frameworks.

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