James Charles apologises for TikTok comments about Spirit Airlines employee

James Charles has apologised after facing criticism over comments he made about a former Spirit Airlines employee who contacted him for financial help following the airline’s collapse.

The influencer initially posted a TikTok video discussing a direct message he claimed to have received from a former employee affected by Spirit Airlines shutting down operations on May 2, 2026.

According to Charles, the message said, “I’m really struggling right now because Spirit Airlines just filed for bankruptcy, and I have lost my job. Here’s a GoFundMe link.”

In his first response video, Charles criticised the woman for asking influencers and celebrities for support, calling her a “lazy piece of sh*t” and “entitled”.

He also said, “Welcome to the real world, sweetheart. People lose their jobs every f**ing day.” The video was later deleted after viewers criticised his remarks online.

Charles then uploaded a second TikTok defending his position while acknowledging his wording had been harsh. “I stand behind what I said 10 toes down,” he stated.

He argued that people should focus on applying for jobs rather than sending mass messages asking for donations.

During the second video, Charles also addressed criticism about his financial status, saying, “I am out of touch, first and foremost, okay? I am never going to be one of those influencers that gets online and pretends to be poor, so I can come across as relatable to my audience.”

That video was also deleted following continued backlash.

In a third TikTok, Charles apologised and withdrew his earlier comments. “This video was fing stupid. It was rude, it was obnoxious, it was privileged, and most importantly, it was completely fing unnecessary,” he said.

Charles also reflected on current employment challenges, adding: “I know that it’s really fing hard out there.”

He further explained that he had attempted to find the original direct message to apologise privately and offer financial assistance, but had been unable to locate it.

Spirit Airlines ceased operations earlier this month, leaving around 17,000 employees without jobs.