Following the controversy that involved two ‘X Factor’ New Zealand judges and their hurtful comments about one contestant, music stars have already expressed their reactions toward such “destructive tirade.”
Natalia Kills and Willy Moon have recently come under fire for ‘bullying’ Joe Irvine, a 25-year-old contestant on the 'X Factor.' The husband-and wife duo harshly criticized Irvine for copying Moon’s signature look when he went on the show, calling him “disgusting” and “creepy" as well.
A comparison was also made with fictional ‘Psycho’ murderer Norman Bates, with Moon suggesting that Irvine resembled a killer dressed in his mother’s clothing.
Following these offensive comments, TV3 owner-operator MediaWorks released an official statement as chief executive Mark Weldon described such behaviors to be “completely unacceptable.” MediaWorks consequently fired the two judges from ‘X Factor.’
Following these events, several music stars expressed their support for Irvine while others have taken aim at both Kills and Moon.
Singer-songwriter Lorde already sent a box of cupcakes and a personal letter for Irvine, sharing her praises for the contestant’s “individuality, positive energy and spirit” while on the show.
"Lorde sent me cupcakes I thank u so much I love them," Irvine tweeted as a response on Monday. A representative for Lorde confirmed that the cupcakes and letter were indeed sent by the 18-year-old singer.
British sensation Ellie Goulding also expressed her disapproval towards Kills and Moon’s unprofessional approach towards judging.
"Can't stop myself from commenting on NZ X factor situation because I can't stop thinking about how mean it was. Thank goodness they're gone,” the 28-year-old singer wrote on her Twitter page.
James Arthur, winner of the U.K. ‘X Factor’ edition in 2012, also shared several #StopBullying messages and tweeted the following statement to Irvine: "Don't ever lose sight of the dream. You handled yourself very well in the face of hate, that's half the battle."
Award-winning musician Ed Sheeran similarly showed encouragement for the ‘X Factor’ contestant by posting the following tweet: “Don't worry about what anyone else says man. Enjoy yourself with it, that's what singing is about, not what other people think.”
In addition, ‘X Factor’ New Zealand judge Stan Walker decided to direct the focus on the show’s contestants as a whole, writing: “Well thats that. Now lets focus on these talented & incredible contestants. The show is about them. Lets move forward. Justice was served!”
