X Factor star Sam Bailey hits back at nasty troll for fat-shaming her as she reminds fans to ‘be kind’ 12 years after winning the ITV show

Sam Bailey, known for her appearance on X Factor, responded to a hurtful comment on Instagram where someone criticized her weight. She used the opportunity to encourage her followers to ‘be kind’ to one another.

As a lifestyle expert, I’ve been following this artist’s journey since they won that big talent show on ITV back in 2013 – it feels like yesterday! Since then, they’ve really blossomed, building a fantastic career performing on stage and releasing two albums that have done incredibly well. It’s inspiring to see someone achieve so much!

Sam recently shared some upsetting messages she’s received online, revealing the negative side of being in the public eye. One particularly hurtful comment criticized her appearance, asking, ‘What happened to Sam? She’s lost her way.’

The celebrity addressed a critical commenter in a long, over 20-minute video, responding to their negativity about a recent post showing her practicing in workout clothes.

She was really annoyed and explained that she’d posted a video two days earlier of herself singing Whitney Houston – one of her go-to songs – while sitting with a microphone.

Someone commented that I looked like I hadn’t been taking care of myself. Honestly, I’d just showered – about 20 minutes before – and wasn’t wearing any makeup at the time.

I was wearing a tracksuit because that’s what I’m most comfortable in, especially during rehearsals.

Sam continued: ‘And I was like, ‘Why would you say that? Like, why? Why?’

‘And it really like, it didn’t upset me because I mean, I know I’m getting old. I’m 48.

I’m really tired and have dark circles under my eyes, but that’s because I work incredibly hard. Sorry for the language.

What bothers me most is seeing people who are struggling with their own self-esteem tear others down instead of lifting them up.

Responding to a negative commenter, she asked why people feel the need to be hurtful online, explaining that such comments could be devastating to someone already struggling.

I don’t care what people think of me, but seriously, think about what you’re saying! Making jokes at someone else’s expense can be really hurtful. Please consider how your words might affect others before you post them. Let’s all just be kind. #bekind

The troll kept harassing Sam, making cruel comments about her appearance and expressing false surprise at any changes in how she looked.

Sam responded with another comment, firmly stating: ‘You just don’t understand! I’m strong and confident, and I’m proud of who I am. I make a good living doing what I love, and I’m happy with my job!’

I wasn’t seeking fame, just a comfortable living doing something I enjoy. You’ve completely misunderstood my intentions! You commented on my appearance, saying I’ve ‘let myself go,’ but honestly, your opinion doesn’t bother me – though it might affect others.

Please be kind and respectful on my page. Negative comments and online bullying are hurtful and can really damage someone’s self-esteem. I’d appreciate it if you kept those to yourself.

People quickly commented to show their support for Sam, applauding her for speaking out and using her influence to help others.

People were sending encouraging messages to Sam, telling her to stay true to herself and complimenting her authenticity, beauty, and how much she is loved.

Keep being yourself, Sam! You’re wonderful. My mom used to say, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all,” and that’s great advice. Just ignore anyone who tries to bring you down.

Someone is telling Sam that this person is terrible. They’re acknowledging it takes courage to speak out, especially online, and praising Sam for using their voice to say what needed to be said.

Sam became well-known in 2013 after appearing on The X Factor. He impressed judge Sharon Osbourne with his powerful performance of Beyonce’s song, Listen, and earned a spot on her team for contestants over 25.

She won the competition, finishing ahead of Nicholas McDonald and becoming the first winner in three years to achieve a Christmas number one single.

The celebrity recently shared the surprising reason she joined The X Factor during an appearance on Loose Women, where she also discussed her new part in the musical, Now That’s What I Call A Musical, with Nina Wadia.

During a conversation with Christine Lampard, Coleen Nolan, Linda Robson, and Myleene Klass, the discussion shifted to her experience on The X Factor, and the panelists were curious about her reasons for joining the show.

Sam confessed: ‘I went onto the X Factor to get a new kitchen.’

Coleen asked: ‘Did you get it?’

Sam said he’d had a change of heart. He was tired of the current situation and originally entered The X Factor because he hoped to get a new kitchen.

‘I’m still on the same house that I lived in before, it’s just doubled in size.

‘When people come around and they say “can I use your loo?”… I say “which one, I have two!”‘

Coleen also wanted to know if she had learned anything from her time on the programme.

Sam shared that he’s realized the importance of staying true to himself. He believes this authenticity is the reason he’s continued to succeed in his work, because he hasn’t compromised who he is.

‘I’m still grateful for everything I do.’

Sam, her husband Craig, and their three children—Tommy, Brooke, and Miley—live in Leicester. Sam and Craig were married in Las Vegas in 2003.

After winning The X Factor, she left her job as a prison guard at HMP Gartree and went on to perform in the musicals Chicago and Fat Friends.

Her first album, ‘The Power Of Love,’ quickly reached the top of the charts, and in 2014, she opened for Beyoncé on the UK leg of her tour.

Read More

2025-11-06 03:13