ATLANTA – Kenya Moore, famed reality TV star of The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA), finds herself in the eye of a professional and personal storm. What began as a glittering business success story has now spiraled into controversy and backlash. Sally Beauty, one of the largest beauty retailers in the U.S., has confirmed it will no longer carry Kenya Moore Hair Care products—a decision that has fans and critics asking: is this the end of her once-promising brand?
But what exactly happened? Let’s dive into the drama, the fallout, and the lingering question: can Kenya bounce back?
What Happened to Kenya Moore Hair Care?
It all started during the grand opening of the Kenya Moore Hair Spa in June 2024. What should have been a triumphant celebration quickly took a dark turn when Moore allegedly displayed explicit images of Brittany Eady, a newcomer to RHOA. Many attendees viewed the act as an attempt to humiliate Eady—an accusation that earned Moore widespread criticism and sparked allegations of “revenge porn.”
You might be thinking: how could this happen at such a high-profile event? That’s the question swirling around social media, where fans and detractors alike are debating the scandal. Despite Moore’s vehement denial, Bravo—the network behind RHOA—took swift action, suspending her indefinitely from the show.
Moore initially defended herself, stating:
“I would never engage in revenge porn or distribute private images of anyone.”
But as the fallout continued, the impact extended far beyond her reality TV career.
Sally Beauty Cuts Ties with Kenya Moore Hair Care
The drama escalated when Sally Beauty announced plans to discontinue Kenya Moore Hair Care by the end of 2024. Officially, the company claimed the decision was unrelated to the scandal. Leaked internal memos, however, tell a different story, hinting that negative publicity may have expedited the process.
A former Sally Beauty employee shed light on the brand’s performance:
“During the pandemic, her products often sat on shelves while other items sold out. This isn’t just about the scandal—the sales weren’t there.”
This revelation begs the question: was Kenya Moore Hair Care already struggling, or did the controversy deliver the final blow?
Kenya Moore’s Public Apology
By November 2024, Moore took to The Tamron Hall Show in an attempt to rebuild her reputation. In a tearful interview, she issued a public apology:
“I regret my actions deeply. I didn’t have to take it that far, and I’m truly sorry.”
Moore claimed her actions stemmed from feeling “threatened” during a confrontation with Eady but acknowledged the lasting damage to her reputation and business. While the apology received mixed reactions, it signaled that Moore was ready to take accountability—at least publicly.
But did it come too late? Critics argue that the timing of her apology, months after the incident, felt more like damage control than genuine remorse.
The Fallout for Kenya Moore Hair Care
Kenya Moore Hair Care once stood out in the crowded beauty market for its emphasis on natural ingredients and inclusivity. However, the scandal has tarnished its reputation, making it harder to compete.
Beauty industry insiders aren’t surprised:
“Celebrity-backed products often live or die by their public image. Scandals like this can be catastrophic,” says a prominent beauty editor.
The loss of Sally Beauty as a distributor is a major setback. Although Kenya Moore Hair Care is still available at select retailers like CVS, the absence of a powerhouse partner limits its reach. Meanwhile, competing brands are capitalizing on the void, leaving Moore with an uphill battle to regain market share.
Reactions from the RHOA Cast and Fans
The scandal has divided both fans and Moore’s RHOA co-stars. Longtime rival Porsha Williams called Moore’s apology “noble” but added:
“Actions have consequences, and this was a hard lesson for her.”
Meanwhile, Brittany Eady, the alleged victim, posted cryptically on Instagram:
“We are all the villain in someone’s story.”
Fans have taken to forums to voice their opinions. Some are disappointed in Moore for jeopardizing a black-owned hair care line with so much potential, while others believe she deserves a second chance.
One fan wrote:
“It’s heartbreaking to see another black woman’s business fail, but Kenya has to take responsibility.”
What’s Next for Kenya Moore Hair Care?
The future of Kenya Moore Hair Care remains uncertain. Reports suggest Moore is exploring new partnerships and considering a rebrand, but rebuilding won’t be easy. The beauty industry is notoriously unforgiving, and consumer trust—once lost—is difficult to regain.
So, can Kenya Moore recover? That’s the million-dollar question. If she can distance herself from the controversy and refocus on delivering high-quality products, there may still be hope. But one thing is clear: the road ahead will be anything but smooth.
The Lesson Behind the Scandal
Kenya Moore’s story serves as a cautionary tale for entrepreneurs, especially those in the spotlight. In today’s hyper-connected world, personal actions can have far-reaching professional consequences. Maintaining a strong public image isn’t just important—it’s essential.
As Sally Beauty clears its shelves of Kenya Moore Hair Care, fans and critics alike are left wondering: will this be the final chapter in her entrepreneurial journey, or can she defy the odds and stage a comeback?
What’s Your Take?
Do you think Kenya Moore deserves a second chance? Would you support Kenya Moore Hair Care if it relaunches? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Kenya has been a mean girl her whole TV life. She did Kim Field and Phaedra wrong also. She has had more than second chances. I wouldn’t buy her brand and don’t want to see her back on Housewives of Atlanta please and thank you!!!! Time to come down off of that high horse baby girl.
A rebranding is in order, and KM should consider adding value priced salon sized/jumbo products to the line. For naturalists and others with thick and/or long hair, the current product sizes are too small considering the price points.
When you play with FIRE you will get burned!
The calmer you are the clearer you think!
Move with strategy not emotions. The GREAT ARETHA FRANKLIN said, ‘You better THINK!’
Stick a fork in her SHE’S DONE!