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Actress and influencer Skai Jackson, best known for her roles on Disney Channel’s Jessie and Bunk’d, is under fire after being accused of sharing photos of other women’s children on social media without obtaining parental consent. The controversy, which has been unfolding over the past week, sparked a broader discussion online about digital boundaries, consent, and the responsibilities of public figures.
It all started when Jackson, 22, posted a series of Instagram stories and TikTok videos featuring children she referred to as “friends’ kids” and “cute little angels” she met during a recent event. While the posts were seemingly harmless and filled with affectionate captions, several parents whose children appeared in the content came forward to express their discomfort.
One mother, who claims her child was featured in a now-deleted TikTok, took to Twitter to air her frustrations. “It’s not okay for Skai Jackson or anyone to post my child’s image without asking me,” she wrote. “I don’t care how famous you are. These are kids, and their safety and privacy should come first.”
Another parent commented on the issue via Instagram, stating, “Celebrities should know better. Would Skai be okay with someone posting her picture as a minor without asking her mom?”
The backlash was swift. Hashtags like #SkaiJackson and #RespectKidsPrivacy began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with many users calling for Jackson to address the issue publicly. Critics emphasized the importance of consent, especially when it comes to minors, and urged influencers to be more mindful of the boundaries between their public and private lives.
In response to the growing criticism, Jackson released a brief statement on her Instagram story, saying: “I never intended to make anyone uncomfortable. I love kids and just wanted to share moments that made me smile. But I hear your concerns, and I’ll be more thoughtful moving forward.”
While some fans appreciated the apology, others felt it lacked depth and failed to acknowledge the gravity of the issue. “It’s not just about ‘making people uncomfortable,’” one user wrote. “It’s about understanding how powerful your platform is and how posting kids without permission can have serious consequences.”
Media experts have weighed in, noting that the incident serves as a reminder that even well-meaning posts can cross boundaries. “Celebrities and influencers need to understand that consent is not optional when it comes to posting images of minors,”said Dr. Leslie Harper, a digital ethics researcher. “What might seem like an innocent post can violate trust and even legal rights.”
