Steps star ‘H’ has hit back at homophobic abuse he received after posting a photo of him and his children.
Ian Watkins, who shares twin sons with former partner Craig Ryder, was told it was “disgusting” for his “poor” children to have two dads. The pop star received the message in private through Instagram DM’s but later shared it with 111,000 followers.
The message read: “Your poor babies having two dad’s its disgusting” and it wasn’t long before ‘H’ hit back at the troll. Sharing the screenshot of the initial message, he wrote: “THIS is the kind of bigotry (& illiteracy) that still exists today. I get these messages on a daily basis on social media.
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"Times have changed but we have a long way to go educate homophobes like Kerrie. Kerrie, if you could only see the life and love my children have. Maybe you never had that, which explains a lot. I’m genuinely sending you love and urging to you educate yourself and do better. #Homophobia #bigot #lgbt #equality #dobetter #educateKerrie”
The 45-year-old became a dad to Macsen and Cybi through surrogacy back in 2016. At the time he was with his former partner but they split a year later. The couple’s earlier attempt to become parents sadly ended in miscarriage and Ian has previously spoken about how he feels the process of adoption is homophobic for LGBT+ families.
H’s fans alongside an array of celebrities were quick to show their love and support for the family.
Ex Countdown presenter, Carol Vorderman commented: “I’ve always said H… always… that you’d win Father of the Year ….utterly devoted to your boys and your life revolves around them. I don’t actually know where you get your energy from tbh.”
His Steps bandmate Clair Richards, who is also a parent, added: “This person is some kind of nutter and not someone that deserves this kind of attention. Whoever it is has been sending me vile messages too. All trying to get attention by saying what will rile you! Not a real thing at all!!”
BBC’s Glow Up judge Dominick Skinner said: “So sad that you and your beautiful family get these types of messages. Homophobia is real and happens all the time. If you are an ally then you must speak out about it. Anyone can see how amazing you are…”
