The days of British prudishness, once defined by a disapproving gaze towards continental Europe's perceived sexual freedoms, are long gone. The pre-internet era, with its "Eurotrash" shock value, now seems almost quaint. Remember the late-night series hosted by Jean-Paul Gaultier and Antoine de Caunes, where viewers might witness a nude Bavarian beer hall scene? Or the transatlantic glances of horror at spectacles like John Bobbitt? Now, the world views Britain with a concerned eye, like a parent watching a rebellious teenager.
Recently, I watched Channel 4’s "1000 Men and Me," a voyeuristic documentary about Bonnie Blue, also known as Tia Billinger. This 26-year-old from Nottinghamshire abandoned a stable career to become an OnlyFans provocateur. The documentary follows her ambition to become the adult site's biggest star, aiming for a substantial monthly income. She had achieved a significant income before being banned for repeatedly violating the platform's rules.
Bonnie sees herself as the female equivalent of Andrew Tate, the self-proclaimed "King of Toxic Masculinity," and eagerly seeks to meet him to promote her latest endeavors. The comparison is not merely symbolic. Both have built empires on extremism, generating both revulsion and fascination. Tate, from Luton, has amassed a fortune by selling misogyny as a lifestyle. Bonnie has done the same, offering a stark portrayal of toxic femininity. Her unwavering gaze as she boasts about engaging in sexual acts with anyone over 18 who consents to being filmed is difficult to forget.
Unlike Tate, who appears to be a straightforward and unapologetic misogynist, Bonnie seems unaware of the contradiction at the core of her message. She claims to represent female empowerment through sexual freedom and financial success, yet she seems to ignore her role in a cultural shift that normalizes the degradation of women and girls. Together, they represent perhaps the most disturbing duo of the digital age. The pressing question is not just how we arrived at this point, but what actions we will take in response.
5 Comments
Manolo Noriega
The culture of 'doing it for the gram' can have real-world effects. We need to discuss where this behavior is leading us.
Fuerza
I appreciate this author's perspective. We need to address the harmful narratives that some women, like Bonnie, propagate.
Manolo Noriega
The narrative of 'concern' is just a mask for disapproval. Let women explore their freedom without judgment.
Ongania
Instead of focusing on Bonnie’s choices, let’s discuss how society’s still catching up to these changing norms.
Fuerza
It’s about time someone pointed out the dangers of normalizing destructive figures like Bonnie and Tate in popular culture.