West End powerhouse Marisha Wallace has courageously opened up about the devastating wave of racist abuse she faced following her appearance on the latest series of Celebrity Big Brother. The Broadway star, known for her roles in Dreamgirls and Waitress, was targeted by online trolls after a now-infamous exchange with music manager Louis Walsh.
In an exclusive and emotional interview, Wallace revealed the profound impact the vitriol had on her mental health, confessing she was reduced to tears. The abuse erupted after Walsh made a comment about her being a "diva," a label Wallace addressed with humour and grace within the house, but which was weaponised by racist viewers online.
The Toll of Online Hate
"I got a lot of racist comments, people calling me an 'angry black woman',' Wallace shared. The star described the painful experience of reading messages that criticised everything from her hair to her personality, solely based on racial stereotypes. She admitted the backlash was so severe that it led to a moment of emotional breakdown, questioning why such hatred was directed her way.
Clapping Back with Strength and Positivity
Rather than be silenced, the acclaimed singer chose to confront the issue head-on. Wallace took to her own social media platforms to call out the racism, delivering a powerful message against hate. She emphasised her commitment to spreading positivity and joy, a mission she feels is directly opposed by those hiding behind anonymous profiles.
Her time in the Celebrity Big Brother house was otherwise a positive experience, with Wallace forming strong bonds with fellow contestants. She has since been praised by fans and colleagues alike for her resilience, talent, and unwavering positivity in the face of abhorrent behaviour.
