Footy WAG Chloe Pink Exposes Shocking Reality of Online Trolls
In a deeply troubling revelation, Chloe Pink, the wife of North Melbourne Kangaroos player Toby Pink, has disclosed that some of her online abusers are people she actually knows. Speaking candidly on the Hit Network's Carrie and Tommy show, Chloe detailed the relentless virtual attacks she has endured since posting her wedding photos over a year ago.
Personal Connections to Abuse
Chloe expressed anger that she even needs to address the vile commentary directed at her. When asked if she personally knew any of the perpetrators, she confirmed, "Yep. Even this morning I saw a comment from a person, and I clicked on their profile... we have 60 mutual friends!" She added that some trolls use public profiles, and she has confronted a few, including one from her childhood who doubled down on the abuse.
Targeted for Her Relationship
Explaining why she believes she has become a target, Chloe suggested that trolls feel possessive of Toby. "Attacking me is defending him and sticking up for him because they feel they have possession and control over him. They think they have a relationship with him," she said. This abuse has extended beyond her wedding, with recent hate comments attacking her over a joke about trying to conceive a child, including cruel remarks about her weight.
Emotional Toll and Coping Mechanisms
The trolling took a severe emotional toll on Chloe, leading to depression. "I'm going to be frank, I was depressed. Toby would come home from work and I would say, 'I can't do this anymore, this is too much,'" she revealed. Toby sought support from his football club and the AFL Players' Association, connecting Chloe with a psychologist. She now feels better equipped to handle the abuse but emphasized the broader impact: "When I'm slandered for the way I looks, or the clothes I wears, it's not just me you're attacking: you're attacking so many other women."
Call for Change and Empowerment
Chloe is determined to shift the narrative, arguing that people should be free to post what they want without fear of abuse. "I want to turn that narrative. You should be allowed to post what you want... I can share what I want and it doesn't give you the authority to comment on it," she declared. Co-host Carrie noted that trolls gain power when given a platform, highlighting the need for greater awareness and action against online harassment.
