Kira Cousins, the 22-year-old from Airdrie who faked a pregnancy and childbirth using a realistic Reborn doll, has withdrawn from a documentary project about the scandal. The supermarket worker had signed an exclusive contract with Soho Studios Entertainment and Two Rivers Media to tell her side of the story, but has now pulled out.
In a statement posted on her Instagram account, which carried an AI-generated warning, Cousins said: 'I have taken the decision to withdraw from the documentary after discussions with the producers, as I believe this is the most appropriate outcome for all involved.' She added that she did not feel the time was right to share her story and wanted to focus on her mental health and that of others.
The production companies confirmed the split, saying: 'We can confirm that we have halted our documentary project, telling the story of Kira Cousins. After much thought, Kira has decided that she no longer wants to share her story.' They emphasised that her wellbeing was paramount.
The hoax came to light in October when Cousins's mother discovered the Reborn doll in her bedroom. Cousins had worn a fake baby bump for months, posted ultrasound scans and videos of a gender reveal party, and claimed her daughter Bonnie-Leigh Joyce weighed 5lbs 4oz. Loved ones had bought expensive items including a £1,000 pram.
A family friend previously expressed disgust at the prospect of Cousins profiting from the deception. Cousins also resigned from the Orange Order in February after an investigation into whether she brought the organisation into disrepute by marching in an Orange Order parade while wearing the fake bump.
