Ashley Benson’s Cecil Snafu

Benson joins other stars who’ve chosen poorly when it comes to Halloween costumes. Unfortunately, her followers already caught her initial post.

Ashley will reprise her role as Hanna Marin on the sixth season of Pretty Little Liars, which resumes January on ABC Family (soon to be renamed Freeform). “I am a supporter of animal conservation and I will be donating…to the World Wildlife Fund. I love you all and apologize (sic) if I let you down”. The retailer does in fact sell a limited-edition, “Cecil the Lion Costume” that features a tail and a similar hood like the one worn by the actress.

Offensive Halloween costumes are nothing new.

The caption was later changed to remove the reference to Cecil, whose killing earlier this year (15) sparked global outrage.

Activists protest outside the office of Walter Palmer, the American dentist who killed Cecil.

The costume worn by Ashley retails at just under £100 but there is also a skimpier version called “Cecil the Lion Costume’ which costs about £77”. Johnathon Weeks, the company’s vice president, told Time that consumers wanted the contentious costume.

Ashley Benson is facing heat from netizens after she reportedly said she is considering wearing a Cecil the Lion Halloween costume. We hope no one else opts to go as Cecil or the dentist for Halloween because this is not the way to raise awareness.

Her followers were quick to draw on how thick-skinned the actress was, which made her realize the blunder as she immediately modified her header with “Help!” Share your thoughts below in the comments section.