Daisy Ridley Quits Instagram Following Abuse Over Anti-Gun Remarks

Social media can be a pretty ugly and unpredictable place when you have 2.3 million followers.

And as such, Daisy Ridley has deleted her Instagram account following a barrage of abuse over comments she made about gun violence.

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The ‘Force Awakens’ star had remarked how a section during the Teen Choice Awards on Sunday, in which tributes were paid to the victims of violent, gun-related attacks, had affected her.

“[As] I sat in the audience yesterday tears were streaming down my face at the tribute to those that have been lost to gun violence,” she wrote.

“I didn’t get a great picture of the incredible group that came on stage but they were so brave. It was a true moment of togetherness. We must #stoptheviolence.”

As innocuous a comment as it was, she was soon met with abuse from followers.

“You have just lost a fan. With the utter lack of research, and an obvious zero knowledge on the subject, this is probably something you should not be talking about,” one wrote.

Another added: “Says the woman who kills people with guns in movies. Such hypocrisy in Hollywood. Just shut up, Ridley and make another Star Wars movie.”

“Please do not start with any liberal statements or movements. We are all against violence. People kill people guns don’t. Don’t ruin Star Wars for any of us,” said another.

“I know how we stop the violence Daisy Ridley. We arm ourselves just like you did in Star Wars. When evil people inflict death and destruction upon you, righteous violence IS the answer. (I would like to add that a Jedi uses the force for knowledge and defense. Never attack.),” wrote another.

After deleting her account, Ridley briefly reinstated it, appearing to distance her choice from the backlash, before deactivating it again.

“I just want to be on my phone less! Trying to be more present and all that and got a busy few months ahead so wanted less distractions… It’s all good 🙂 I always appreciate the support and love and Instagram community! X,” she wrote.

Some even began lobbying ‘Star Wars’ co-star John Boyega to get her back online.

“She’s doing what’s best for her. I won’t be advising my friend to come back. Sorry,” he wrote, adding, ‘Can’t do that. She make her own decisions and as a friend I support her right to’.

Image credits: PA/Disney