BBC Strictly’s newest star, Karen Carney, has opened up about her heart-wrenching experience with online abuse that once left her at rock bottom. This inspirational football icon, having donned jerseys for Chelsea, Arsenal, Birmingham City, and the Lionesses, is now ready to dazzle on the Strictly Come Dancing stage. But before the glitz, Karen faced a tough battle off the field—one that challenged her mental health to its core.
The former England star, and third most-capped player for the nation, became a target of appalling social media abuse after her commentary on Leeds United’s performance in December 2020. What followed was a tsunami of hateful messages that kept coming for days, shattering Karen’s peace and compelling her to prioritize her mental well-being above all else. Despite the negativity, she found strength among her peers, although the mental scars remained.
Reflecting on those dark times, Karen—now a pundit on TNT Sports—revealed the overwhelming impact of the abuse and her frustration with the inadequate understanding from social media platforms. She courageously disclosed how the magnitude of online hate pushed her to understand the tragic decisions made by others affected by similar experiences.
Despite her struggles, Karen emerged stronger and advocated for combatting online abuse, hoping for a kinder internet community. Her powerful message? “Just be nice. If you don’t like it, turn over. No need for abuse.”
As Karen prepares to slip into her dancing shoes, she is excited to join her fellow contestants and meet fans’ support. Let’s cheer on this remarkable woman, not only for her upcoming Strictly performances but for her resilience and courage in the face of adversity. We can’t wait to see her shine on the dance floor! 🌟💃
[Include Karen’s images for a personal touch and engagement]