By Dhara Patel and Nyelle Sarreal
Fans of celebrities have been known to stir the pot when it comes to suspected celebrity drama. Most recently, a fan-fueled dispute has risen to the surface between Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber, and some have a lot to say about it.
Many social media users have suspected possible tensions between the two public figures. The controversy stems from Hailey Bieber’s marriage to Justin Bieber, with whom Gomez had a very public relationship with. Since then, rumors have spiraled, claiming Hailey Bieber copies everything that Gomez does, and when Hailey Bieber got a similar tattoo to Gomez, it only added fuel to the fire.
“I think Hailey Bieber is very jealous of Selena Gomez, and I think the accusations are true but some are dragged,” freshman Joey Perricone said.
Artwork by Ashwathi Chemban
Fans eagerly anticipate what may be next for the subjects of internet controversy, Hailey Bieber and Selena Gomez, and the role that cancel culture will continue to play.
The drama peaked after many fans suspected that Hailey Bieber shaded Gomez in a now-deleted TikTok. The video led to the belief that Hailey Bieber was in support of those who body shame Gomez, as she posted a video about “karma” and “people getting what they deserve.” Gomez responded to this in the comments section of a TikTokker reporting on the situation saying, “It’s ok! I don’t let these things get me down! Be nice to everyone!”
After this, many fans of Gomez attacked Hailey Bieber in her comments, sending negative messages and death threats. At its peak, Gomez posted an Instagram story alerting fans that Hailey Bieber reached out to inform her about the hate she is receiving, and Gomez urged her supporters to stop bullying the actress. In response, Hailey Bieber publicly thanked Gomez for speaking out.
“I think, since the two cleared the air, everyone should let the drama go and move on,” senior Adrianna Gomes said.
Even as the tensions subside, this feud remains a prime example of how situations can escalate when put in the public eye. Although the drama has dissolved for now, many admit they were entertained when picking a side to “Belieb.”