Dave Benson Phillips: From TV Fame to Online Trolls
Vanished from the Spotlight: A Disturbing Reason
Dave Benson Phillips, once a familiar face on TV screens in the 1990s as the host of “Get Your Own Back,” faced an unfortunate disappearance from the limelight in the late 2000s.
The reason behind this disappearance was far from pleasant.
Targeted by Online Hoaxes and Trolls
The former frontman of the CBBC show, known for his sliming antics and charitable endeavors, fell victim to online trolls who initiated a cruel hoax about his demise.
This wasn’t the end of the ordeal, however.
These trolls went even further, tarnishing his reputation by creating a Facebook page under his name that propagated offensive views about children with learning disabilities.
A Shocking Discovery
In 2018, Dave recounted his shocking discovery of the fabricated online content during an interview with the Big Issue.
He stumbled upon the derogatory page while using an internet-connected computer at a store.
He described the experience as distressing, as the page featured images of him alongside repugnant opinions targeting children with special needs.
Fighting Back Against the Attacks
Amid the onslaught of fake news and negativity from thousands of online users, Dave and his team had to quickly learn how to combat the situation.
Establishing his own social media presence was their initial response.
However, the attacks escalated, highlighting the dark side of the internet and social media.
An Unwanted Invasion of Privacy
Dave likened the online attacks to a cowardly invasion of privacy, where people could directly hurl insults and hurtful comments at him.
He compared the scenario to someone entering his home and insulting him in front of his family.
The police became involved, but identifying the culprits proved challenging.
Rebuilding Amid Rumors
Despite the adversity, Dave persisted in rebuilding his entertainment career.
He even compiled a list of children’s entertainment equipment, which garnered widespread attention online.
Alongside the more troubling rumors, he also encountered lighthearted ones, such as being the “sixth member” of One Direction and being married to Natalie Imbruglia.
From Trolling to Lighter Rumors
Dave shared some of these more amusing rumors he came across online, a far cry from the malicious trolling he endured over a decade ago.
One particularly whimsical rumor was that he was married to Natalie Imbruglia.
Even his wife found that one to be more amusing than hurtful.
A Return to the Screen
Dave has made a comeback in the public eye, appearing on the latest series of “Celebrity MasterChef,” which premiered on August 9.
Despite the challenges he faced, he continues to shine as an entertainer and demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity.
