Celebrity chef Hilda Baci has spoken out strongly against online harassment directed at her 15-year-old brother after a lighthearted Snapchat video between them was reposted across multiple platforms and turned into material for ridicule.
In a statement shared on X, Baci expressed shock that what she described as an innocent, playful moment with her sibling was removed from its original context and amplified online in a way that encouraged mockery and bullying.
Allegations of edited images and public ridicule
According to Baci, the situation escalated after users not only shared the video but also edited images of her younger brother to exaggerate his appearance for comedic effect.
She criticised the actions, particularly those of adults participating in the ridicule of a minor, stressing that her brother had done nothing wrong beyond appearing in a casual family moment.
“Adults are editing the image of a 15 year old boy and publicly mocking him,” she said, describing the behaviour as unfair and harmful.
“He did nothing except exist in a funny video”
Baci emphasised that her brother’s involvement in the viral moment was entirely innocent and undeserving of the backlash he received.
“My brother did nothing except exist in a funny video with his sister,” she wrote.
She also defended his character, describing him as kind, loved, and still growing into adulthood.
“He’s kind. He’s loved. He’s growing, learning, and becoming the amazing young man I know he will be,” she added.
Call for accountability and empathy online
Beyond defending her brother, Baci used her statement to challenge broader patterns of online behaviour, urging users to reflect on the impact of their comments and shares—especially when minors are involved.
“If your idea of entertainment is tearing down a child, then that’s a reflection of your character, not his,” she said.
She further appealed to social media users to consider the emotional impact of their actions before posting or sharing harmful content.
“I hope, before you type another insult or share another edited image, you remember that there is a real teenager on the other side of your screen reading what you write. Do better,” she concluded.
Broader concerns over digital harassment
The incident has once again raised concerns about the ease with which private or casual social media content can be amplified and distorted online, particularly when minors are involved, and the growing call for more responsible digital behaviour.