Unless you live under a rock, your social media timeline has likely served you something about content creators Kristy Sarah and Desmond Scott’s divorce. Whether it was a TMZ report alleging Desmond was spotted kissing another woman at a bar in Houston, or TikToks dissecting supposed “signs” of infidelity, the internet has been buzzing with speculation regarding what caused the end of this viral couple’s relationship.
It’s no surprise that the breakup of two creators with hundreds of thousands of followers led to extensive commentary. However, the sheer magnitude of the discourse has left many astonished. Social media bloggers and major platforms alike, including TMZ, have weighed in. Even comedian and content creator KevOnStage expressed his shock at how invested people seemed to be in the unfolding drama.
Yet amidst all the chatter, one key truth remains: their divorce is ultimately their business alone. In true social media fashion, however, users wasted no time offering unsolicited opinions. While some extended grace and support to Kristy as she navigates her new normal as a mother of two, others relished in making harsh judgments, proudly declaring they “saw it coming.” Though moments of collective empathy can remind us of the value of community, this phenomenon also reveals how readily some individuals engage in discussions about personal matters that are far removed from their own lives.
Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X were initially designed to help us maintain connections with friends, family, and the occasional acquaintance. Yet with the rise of influencers and lifestyle creators—individuals whose brands revolve around sharing curated glimpses of their personal experiences—the boundaries have become increasingly blurred. The result? A proliferation of parasocial relationships characterized by a misguided sense of intimacy. This familiarity often leads users to communicate with strangers much as they would with close friends or family, resulting in boundary-crossing that can be uncomfortable for all involved.
While some argue that creators “invite” this level of scrutiny by sharing their lives online, this access does not inherently grant authority. No number of followers, likes, or comments gives anyone the right to deluge a public figure’s life, marriage, or personal dilemmas with unsolicited commentary. The words of Scottie Beam serve as a powerful reminder: “We do not know these people.” Whether Kristy retains the house or Desmond keeps it is simply not our concern.
There’s a fine line between care and commentary, and the internet often seems to overlook this distinction. It is entirely possible to wish individuals well without dissecting the inner workings of their lives. Compassion can exist without transforming someone’s personal struggles into fodder for public discussion. In many cases, the most respectful response to such circumstances is silence, allowing the individuals involved the space they need to heal and move forward.