Bullying and body-shaming are never okay. Unfortunately, it seems that people are becoming more bold as they hide behind their phones and computer screens and send hurtful messages to others online. Country stars aren’t immune to the bullying. In fact, they are often on the receiving end of intense criticism about their life decisions and appearance.
Most recently, country singer Carly Pearce was the target of online body-shaming when she received a private message asking if she was pregnant. The message included close-up photos of the star and her stomach with a note that read, “Are you pregnant? Cause you run 10 miles a day….”
The “Every Little Thing” singer shared the post and was honest about her disbelief that someone could be so hurtful. She added a poignant response calling for her fans, and everyone reading her post, to understand the power of words.
“Last night, I got off stage on a high from an amazing show in Iowa, where I headlined my second show of the weekend, hearing the entire crowd sing the words to my songs. I checked my messages as I do every night after a show because I love y’all and love to see the fun you’ve had at the show, and then I saw these 2 messages,” Pearce wrote. “Honestly I’m still in disbelief but I wanted to share this with you because I feel like this is important (especially for women) to see that WORDS ARE POWERFUL & no matter what, THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK and BE KIND. Body Shaming & Bullying ARE NEVER OKAY.”
Carly’s fans and fellow artists were quick to come to her defense on social media.
Please know you are 100% awesome! You are so fit, strong, talented and stunning!! There is nothing about you that is less than amazing! Keep shining bright ?
— Deborah Jane Power (@bonespower) January 20, 2019
I hate that people have the audacity to say these things, like do they realise the effect of saying things like that on people's confidence, and self-love. Girl, honestly, you look incredible, don't let them undermine your self worth, because you're worth the world
— Charlotte (@lucystroiansian) January 20, 2019
Carly Pearce announced her engagement to fellow country star Michael Ray in mid-December, just five months after revealing that they were dating. Ray proposed while the couple were on vacation to Tulum, Mexico. Photos shared by the pair show Ray down on one knee as Carly covered her face with her hands, clearly surprised by the proposal.
A wedding date hasn’t been announced, but we’re looking forward to seeing this adorable couple tie the knot!