Former Home and Away star Christie Hayes opens up about domestic violence trauma
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Content warning: This article contains discussions and descriptions of domestic violence, including instances of physical abuse and traumatic experiences. Reader discretion is advised, as the content may be distressing or triggering for some individuals.
In a recent revelation, a well-known figure from the entertainment industry has courageously come forward to share a deeply personal experience with the public.
Opening up about a harrowing encounter, the former Home and Away star shed light on this sensitive issue, sparking discussions about the prevalence of such incidents and the importance of raising awareness.
This candid disclosure offers insight into the challenges faced by individuals affected, highlighting the need for support and understanding within society.
In a candid and courageous admission, Christie Hayes, known for her role as Kirsty Sutherland on the iconic Australian soap Home and Away, opened up about her experience with domestic violence.
At just 15 years old, while already in the public eye for her work on television, Hayes found herself in a relationship with an older man who quickly turned abusive.
The details of her ordeal were shared during her radio show on Hobart’s Hit100.9, Dan & Christie For Breakfast, in response to the disturbing footage involving American rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs that recently made headlines.
Hayes, now 37, expressed her decision to speak out was driven by the hope that her story might resonate with and help others currently facing similar situations.
‘I haven’t ever spoken about it on air; I’ve really (never) told anybody about it apart from my mum,’ she shared.
‘I was 15. I was on TV. Wherever I went, I would have people stare at me and whisper, “Oh, that’s Kirsty from Home and Away!”’
‘I remember being at the airport with a boyfriend, and he had gone through my bag, he’d gone through my stuff, and I had written a Christmas card to a co-star of mine—a guy who was on the show with me. I said, “Hey, I love you. Merry Christmas. Have a great break.”’
‘He read the card, I hadn’t even got a word out of my mouth (before) he turned around and (hit me).’
‘He hit me in the face so hard that I had almost a tooth missing, I was bleeding all down my mouth, and I remember shaking with embarrassment going, “Oh my God, what if someone saw that?” I ran to the bathroom, and I started to cry.’
‘I was 15 when this happened. I was young, I was a little girl,’ Hayes continued.
Reflecting on her younger self, Hayes expressed a protective sentiment as she looked ‘back on that little girl and I just think, “I just want to protect her.”’
‘It’s still happening. It’s happening to little girls, it’s happening to grown women—we are being hit,’ she lamented, highlighting the ongoing struggle against domestic violence.
‘We are sick and tired of it. I look back at the kid I was, and I wish I protected myself. I couldn’t protect myself.’
The video of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs that prompted Hayes' confession showed the rapper, reportedly wearing only a white towel, chasing his then-partner, known as Cassie Ventura, and kicking her while she was on the ground.
The video then depicted the US music mogul dragging Ventura and throwing a vase towards her.
Following the release of the disturbing footage, Combs issued an apology for his actions.
In a video statement shared on social media, he acknowledged that his behaviour was ‘inexcusable’ and expressed feeling ‘disgusted’ by it.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or domestic or family violence, please reach out for help.
In Australia, you can contact 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or visit their website at 1800RESPECT.org.au for support.
In an emergency, always call 000. For men concerned and seeking advice and counselling about their use of family violence, the Men’s Referral Service can be reached at 1300 766 491.
As celebrities like former Home and Away star Christie Hayes bravely step forward to share their experiences with domestic violence, their stories shed light on the pervasive issue affecting individuals across various walks of life.
This revelation not only sparks conversations about the prevalence of domestic abuse but also underscores the importance of raising awareness and providing support to those in need.
In a similar vein, another Aussie celebrity recently opened up about his horrific battle with domestic violence, further emphasising the urgency of addressing this critical issue within society.
For our readers at the Seniors Discount Club, it's essential to recognise that domestic violence can affect individuals of all ages, including those in our community.
It's crucial to stay informed, support loved ones who may be at risk, and understand the resources available for those in need.
What are your thoughts on this critical issue? What do you think is the appropriate punishment for such acts? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.
In a recent revelation, a well-known figure from the entertainment industry has courageously come forward to share a deeply personal experience with the public.
Opening up about a harrowing encounter, the former Home and Away star shed light on this sensitive issue, sparking discussions about the prevalence of such incidents and the importance of raising awareness.
This candid disclosure offers insight into the challenges faced by individuals affected, highlighting the need for support and understanding within society.
In a candid and courageous admission, Christie Hayes, known for her role as Kirsty Sutherland on the iconic Australian soap Home and Away, opened up about her experience with domestic violence.
At just 15 years old, while already in the public eye for her work on television, Hayes found herself in a relationship with an older man who quickly turned abusive.
The details of her ordeal were shared during her radio show on Hobart’s Hit100.9, Dan & Christie For Breakfast, in response to the disturbing footage involving American rapper Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs that recently made headlines.
Former Home and Away actor Christie Hayes revealed her abusive relationship at age 15. Credits: Instagram / @christiehayes
Hayes, now 37, expressed her decision to speak out was driven by the hope that her story might resonate with and help others currently facing similar situations.
‘I haven’t ever spoken about it on air; I’ve really (never) told anybody about it apart from my mum,’ she shared.
‘I was 15. I was on TV. Wherever I went, I would have people stare at me and whisper, “Oh, that’s Kirsty from Home and Away!”’
‘I remember being at the airport with a boyfriend, and he had gone through my bag, he’d gone through my stuff, and I had written a Christmas card to a co-star of mine—a guy who was on the show with me. I said, “Hey, I love you. Merry Christmas. Have a great break.”’
‘He read the card, I hadn’t even got a word out of my mouth (before) he turned around and (hit me).’
‘He hit me in the face so hard that I had almost a tooth missing, I was bleeding all down my mouth, and I remember shaking with embarrassment going, “Oh my God, what if someone saw that?” I ran to the bathroom, and I started to cry.’
‘I was 15 when this happened. I was young, I was a little girl,’ Hayes continued.
Reflecting on her younger self, Hayes expressed a protective sentiment as she looked ‘back on that little girl and I just think, “I just want to protect her.”’
‘It’s still happening. It’s happening to little girls, it’s happening to grown women—we are being hit,’ she lamented, highlighting the ongoing struggle against domestic violence.
‘We are sick and tired of it. I look back at the kid I was, and I wish I protected myself. I couldn’t protect myself.’
The video of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs that prompted Hayes' confession showed the rapper, reportedly wearing only a white towel, chasing his then-partner, known as Cassie Ventura, and kicking her while she was on the ground.
The video then depicted the US music mogul dragging Ventura and throwing a vase towards her.
Following the release of the disturbing footage, Combs issued an apology for his actions.
In a video statement shared on social media, he acknowledged that his behaviour was ‘inexcusable’ and expressed feeling ‘disgusted’ by it.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or domestic or family violence, please reach out for help.
In Australia, you can contact 1800RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or visit their website at 1800RESPECT.org.au for support.
In an emergency, always call 000. For men concerned and seeking advice and counselling about their use of family violence, the Men’s Referral Service can be reached at 1300 766 491.
As celebrities like former Home and Away star Christie Hayes bravely step forward to share their experiences with domestic violence, their stories shed light on the pervasive issue affecting individuals across various walks of life.
This revelation not only sparks conversations about the prevalence of domestic abuse but also underscores the importance of raising awareness and providing support to those in need.
In a similar vein, another Aussie celebrity recently opened up about his horrific battle with domestic violence, further emphasising the urgency of addressing this critical issue within society.
It's crucial to stay informed, support loved ones who may be at risk, and understand the resources available for those in need.
What are your thoughts on this critical issue? What do you think is the appropriate punishment for such acts? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.
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