Leslie Horton Takes Down Body-Shamer on Live TV, Receives Overwhelming Public Support
Leslie Horton, anchor and traffic reporter for Global News Calgary, had no hesitation in shutting down a body-shaming viewer during a live broadcast. Her composed response to the viewer’s rude comments about her appearance gained an immense amount of public support.
Last Thursday, while in the middle of the show’s broadcast, Horton received an email from a male viewer that criticized her outfit. She seamlessly transitioned from reporting on traffic conditions to addressing the correspondence.
I’m just going to respond to an email that I just got saying, ‘Congratulations on your pregnancy; if you’re going to wear old bus driver pants, you have to expect emails like this,’ Horton calmly stated.
What followed next was a striking example of how to silence a troll. She confidently disclosed, No, I’m not pregnant. I actually lost my uterus to cancer last year, and this is what women of my age look like. So, if it’s offensive to you, that is unfortunate. Think about the emails you send, referring to her 2021 battle with endometrial cancer.
Horton revealed that this particular viewer had been sending mean-spirited emails for about four years. Initially, her plan was to ignore his remarks, as she had done in the past. However, during this broadcast, her words flowed from the heart unexpectedly.
I had no plans to address the nasty email online, I put it aside and prepared for my next traffic report as usual, but as I started my traffic hit those words just came out of my mouth … didn’t plan them, rehearse them, know I was going to say them … they just came from my heart, Horton explained.
Horton believes that her response was not fueled by anger. Instead, it was a sincere and composed reaction. She further expressed that women in broadcasting often receive unkind emails attacking their appearance and clothing, but choosing not to address them can take a toll on mental well-being.
Her powerful response resonated with numerous viewers. When Global Calgary shared a clip of the incident, Horton was flooded with overwhelming support from around the world. News outlets from across North America were eager to speak with her, and she has been hailed as a brave hero on social media.
Michael Kehler, the masculinities research chair at the University of Calgary’s Werklund School of Education, expressed his initial surprise at the incident. He stated that some men feel entitled to pass judgment and belittle women, especially those in positions of authority. Kehler applauded Horton for her appropriate response, highlighting her tactful and calm approach in addressing the comments head-on.
However, Kehler emphasized that true accountability for such behavior will only come when more people actively challenge and denounce misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, and other shaming behaviors in their daily lives. He stressed the responsibility we all have to question such comments and call out our peers on these statements.
Leslie Horton’s courageous stand against body-shaming has sparked a broader conversation about online harassment and bullying. Her measured and authentic response serves as a powerful reminder that kindness and respect should be the guiding principles in all interactions, both online and offline.
In an industry where women face consistent scrutiny, Horton’s unwavering resolve sets a remarkable example for all. By using her platform to confront negativity, she has ignited a worldwide conversation about the importance of acceptance and empathy.
As women continue to face unwarranted criticism, it is crucial that individuals stand up against these hurtful behaviors and foster a culture of inclusivity and support. Leslie Horton’s grace under pressure serves as a reminder that a united front can help overcome adversity and promote positivity in the face of online abuse.
