Epic Games is addressing player backlash over in-game cosmetics tied to singer D4vd by offering refunds for the associated emotes and Jam Tracks, the company confirmed over the weekend.
The Fortnite developer responded to community concerns on April 26–27, 2026, via its official @FortniteStatus account, announcing immediate refund options for items linked to the 21-year-old artist (real name David Anthony Burke). The cosmetics in question include the “Feel It” and “Trophy Drop” emotes, as well as the Jam Tracks “Locked and Loaded” and “What Are You Waiting For,” which were added through prior collaborations in Fortnite Festival mode.
In its statement, Epic acknowledged the outcry: “We hear the concerns. We have a bunch of changes we’re rolling out over time. The first one will be available on Tuesday, April 28th, when anyone who purchased one of these items will be able to get an immediate self-service refund.” The company also noted that players requesting refunds through Epic Player Support are already seeing approvals.
Refunds are available now via support tickets on the Epic Games website or in-game help system. Starting Tuesday, April 28, an in-game self-service option will allow eligible purchasers to reclaim their V-Bucks directly without contacting support. This marks a rare concession from Epic, which generally limits refunds for digital cosmetics beyond the standard 30-day window.
The move comes amid intense player discomfort following Burke’s arrest and charges in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Her severely decomposed and mutilated remains were discovered in September 2025 in the trunk of a Tesla registered to Burke. Prosecutors have alleged continuous sexual abuse of the minor, first-degree murder with special circumstances, mutilation of human remains, and related charges. Authorities also reported finding a significant amount of child sexual abuse material on devices seized from Burke.
Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges and remains in custody without bail. The case is ongoing.
D4vd, known for alternative pop/R&B tracks including the breakout hit “Romantic Homicide,” had previously collaborated with Fortnite on music-themed content. Many players expressed unease about owning or using items associated with the artist in light of the allegations involving a minor, sparking widespread calls for full delisting of the cosmetics from the Item Shop, player lockers, and the game itself.
While some in the community have referenced the principle of “innocent until proven guilty,” the predominant reaction has focused on the severity of the charges. Epic has hinted at additional “changes” in the coming weeks but has not confirmed complete removal or automatic deletion of the items from accounts. Items obtained for free through events or rewards are not covered by the automatic refund process.
The Fortnite community has mobilized quickly around the issue, with many welcoming the refund option as an initial step while continuing to push for broader action. Similar artist collaborations in Fortnite Festival have become common in recent years, featuring icons such as Chappell Roan, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, and PARTYNEXTDOOR.
As of now, the D4vd cosmetics remain accessible for players who choose to retain them. Owners seeking refunds are advised to act through support immediately or utilize the self-service tool beginning Tuesday.
The situation continues to develop, with further updates expected from Epic Games and potential influence from ongoing legal proceedings against Burke.
