'Glambot Guy' Cole Walliser Addressed The Leaked Email About Yinka Animashaun — Netizens Aren't Buying It

Cole Walliser, the viral sensation better known as the 'Glambot Guy,' has finally addressed the leaked 2019 emails that ignited a firestorm of criticism last week. The filmmaker, famed for capturing slow-motion red carpet glamour, now finds himself at the centre of a debate over professionalism and accountability.

The controversy stems from a series of messages in which Walliser delivered a response, described by netizens as condescending, to a potential client, Yinka Animashaun. While Walliser has since issued an apology for his dismissive tone, the internet isn't so quick to forgive. Despite his explanation, many online remain sceptical, sparking a wider discussion about his conduct and the pressure of public scrutiny.

The Backlash: From J.Lo Drama to Leaked Emails

Walliser faced backlash after leaked emails surfaced showing what many described as a condescending and dismissive response to a potential client.

The controversy emerged just days after Walliser addressed an interaction with Jennifer Lopez, in which the singer and actress was perceived by some as 'cold' and 'rude' towards directors.

The leaked emails dated back to a 2019 inquiry from a bride named Yinka Animashaun, who was planning a multicultural wedding featuring three ceremonies. Animashaun is Nigerian, while her husband is Indian. In his response, Walliser appeared to look down on the bride, stating that the camera was not 'cheap'—a remark many interpreted as implying she could not afford the service.

One line in particular drew intense criticism: 'If you wanted to know how much it costs, you just needed to ask, you don't need to pretend you are going to book it.' The message sparked widespread backlash, with many accusing Walliser of being dismissive and elitist.

Wedding Photos Resurface

Days later, the controversy intensified when photos from Animashaun's wedding resurfaced online, seemingly showing that she was more than capable of affording the Glambot

As a result, Walliser himself became the focus of criticism, shifting the spotlight away from his defence of Lopez and towards his own conduct.

Walliser's Apology

A week after the emails resurfaced, Walliser broke his silence. In a video posted to his social media accounts on 28 January, Walliser addressed the 2019 exchange, admitting his behaviour was inexcusable. 'The tone in these emails was dismissive and curt, and that is not okay,' he said.

The 44-year-old explained that at the time, he was running the operation alone. 'It was just myself. I edited every single video, I answered every single email, and I was overwhelmed. But that is not an excuse. Everything lands on me,' he said.

Walliser apologised and clarified that he rejects claims of racism. 'I think the hardest part about all of this is being labelled racist. I'm half Chinese, and growing up, issues of identity, race, and belonging deeply affected me. I would never intend to inflict that onto anybody else,' he said.

He added that he understands why the emails caused outrage. 'I do understand that reading these emails, people could be upset and assume bias, especially given the frequency at which people of colour experience being dismissed.'

Reflecting on the past seven years since the email was sent, Walliser said he believes he has grown: 'I like to think that I have grown a lot in the past seven years, and I always want to treat everybody with the respect that they deserve. But clearly, more could be done, and I can do better.'

Divided Opinions Online

Despite Walliser's explanation and apology, many on the internet remained unconvinced. One netizen questioned: 'Why did he take so long? Would make more sense to address it while it's still trending.'

Another echoed the sentiment: 'Why'd it take him a day to respond to the JLo stuff but a week to respond to his poor professionalism towards non-celebrities?'

A third asked: 'Have you reached out to the person you were dismissive to and apologized?'

Animashaun herself weighed in on X, while other critics questioned Walliser's remarks about race and staffing. Not all reactions were negative, however. One supporter wrote: 'This comment section has made me realize that nobody should ever give public apologies. Half the time, they'll still ridicule you and form their own ideas regardless of your apology, so let it play out.'

Another added: 'You're doing the right thing by apologizing. Shows you're a good human and mature. But yeah, you should also apologize to the lady directly. Glad you're doing this the right way! You're so talented, and you make everyone look GOOD! Keep up the amazing work, you rock!'

As the dust settles, Walliser remains at the centre of a heated debate over professionalism, accountability, and the value of public apologies.