Luke Perry’s 18-year-old daughter has been battling negativity on social media since speaking out about the sudden loss of her father.
Perry passed away on Monday, March 4, after suffering from a massive stroke. The “Beverly Hills, 90210” star’s children, Sophie, and 21-year-old Jack, were heartbroken, Dearly reported.
Sophie spoke out last week to thank her dad’s fans for all their support following the tragedy. She said, in part:
I’m not really sure what to say or do in this situation, it’s something you aren’t ever given a lesson on how to handle, especially when it’s all happening in the public eye. So bear with me and know that I am grateful for all the love. Just, being grateful quietly.
Now, the teen says she’s being shamed for how she’s publicly dealt with her father’s death.
Sophie took to Instagram on Monday to respond to criticism over her “grieving process.”
She explained that she’s dealing with Perry’s death in her own way, even if she’s not constantly shedding tears. Her dad wouldn’t want that, Sophie explained:
Since my dad died I have received a lot of attention online. And most of it has been positive but of course, some people just can’t be nice. And I’m here to say that I did not ask for this attention, I did not ask to be thrown into some virtual spotlight, and while I don’t mean to offend anybody, I’m also not going to cater to any one else’s needs and beliefs. I’m 18. I swear like a sailor and sometimes I dress like a hooker. And I support causes and you may not. And most importantly. I am going to laugh and smile and live my normal life.
She continued:
YES I am hurt and sad and crying and beside myself with what happened to my dad. It’s the worst thing to ever happen in my life. And I am torn the f*ck up over it. But I’m not going to sit in my room and cry day in and day out until the internet has deemed it appropriate for me to do otherwise. And if you knew my dad you would know he wouldnt want me to. So you shouldn’t either. So to those of you shaming me for my language and my wardrobe and most disgustingly, my grieving process, do us both the favor and just unfollow. It’s a waste of both of your time.
Many commenters offered words of support to the teen and applauded her “amazing attitude” despite the difficult circumstances.
Perry’s fiancee, Wendy Madison Bauer, also recently addressed the loss of her longtime partner. They were together for nearly 12 years before he lost his life.
The family has not announced any public funeral arrangements.