Courtney Stodden Deserved More From Chrissy Teigen — And From All of Us

If you hadn’t heard of Courtney Stodden before, you surely have now. The news has been buzzing about Chrissy Teigen’s public apology for her past bullying of Stodden, which included some truly distressing comments like telling them to “take a dirt nap” and “kill yourself.” While the apology is a step in the right direction, it cannot undo the hurt caused by those words. Courtney Stodden deserves to be recognized not just for the hurt inflicted on them by Teigen but by society at large.

The Early Years

Stodden first gained notoriety in 2011 when they were married to Doug Hutchison, a man 35 years their senior. Instead of condemning Hutchison for his predatory behavior, society chose to mock and objectify Stodden. In a healthy context, one would view Stodden as a vulnerable young person entangled in a complex family situation, not a target for ridicule.

The Manipulation and Abuse

Hutchison’s manipulation of Stodden and their family was alarming. Stodden later revealed that their parents were in a troubled marriage, making them susceptible to being groomed. Their mother believed the marriage would offer protection, but it turned out to be a facade. Once married, the nightmare truly began, with Stodden subjected to humiliation on national television and forced into exploitative publicity stunts.

The media treated Stodden’s struggles as entertainment, failing to recognize that they were a child in need, not a performer who could consent to the treatment they received. Stodden’s experience with Hutchison was not just emotional; they faced psychological abuse, which left lasting scars. The traumatic experiences they went through were compounded by public humiliation and exploitation.

The Aftermath

Despite separating from Hutchison in 2018 and finalizing their divorce in 2020, Stodden still carries the weight of their past. They now express feelings of heaviness and a struggle for genuine happiness, which is a stark reminder of the trauma endured. It’s crucial that society reflects on how we treated Stodden and strives to do better moving forward.

Identity and Respect

In April of this year, Stodden shared that they identify with they/them pronouns, and it’s vital to respect that identity.

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Conclusion

In summary, Courtney Stodden’s story is a heartbreaking example of how society can fail to protect the vulnerable. Their experiences highlight the need for compassion and accountability from both individuals and the media. As we move forward, it’s essential to recognize the humanity in every individual and strive to create a more supportive environment.