27-year-old model Ali Michael posted a photo of 14-year-old Stranger Things actor Finn Wolfhard on her Instagram stories, which has caused a lot of backlash.
The photo was a selfie of Finn, accompanied by the caption, “Not to be weird but hit me up in 4 years @finnwolfhardofficial.”
Of course, fans were quick to grab a screenshot of the photo and post it on Twitter.
“this is disgusting, she’s literally 27 and he’s 14 what the f***.”
Although some people did come to her defence, saying it was just a joke.
Ali apologised on her Instagram stories, saying that, “It was completely and honestly a joke but I understand that people have been offended by it. It was wrong to joke about and I apologise. I do not want Mike from Stranger Things to call me. I hope this clears things up.”
But, apology or not, fans were still annoyed that she would joke about something like that anyway, pointing out how much more problematic it would be if the roles were reversed, and an older guy made these comments about a 14-year-old girl.
What makes the whole situation worse, is that the ‘joke’ was made only days after Finn fired his agent, after allegations of sexual abuse to former clients had come out.
During a time where the industry is facing a lot of sexual abuse horror stories, now is not the time to joke… if not ever.
Finn has yet to make any comments.
If you, or someone you know, has experienced sexual harassment in any way, speak confidentially to a trained counsellor 24 hours a day:
Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.
Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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