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Daisy Ridley Quits Instagram After Anti-Gun Violence Post Backlash

‘Star Wars” Daisy Ridley Quits Instagram After Anti-Gun Violence Post Backlash

(Daisy Ridley Photo: Getty Images)

Star Wars: The Force Awakens actress Daisy Ridley deleted her Instagram account after receiving backlash on a post calling for an end to gun violence.

Ridley met a group of teens whose lives have been affected by gun violence at the Teen Choice Awards, and later wrote on Instagram:

“[As] I sat in the audience yesterday tears were streaming down my face at the tribute to those that have been lost to gun violence. I didn’t get a great picture of the incredible group that came on stage but they were so brave. It was a true moment of togetherness. We must #stoptheviolence.”

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Comments poured in, many of them supporting Ridley’s message, but others swiftly criticized her. Pro-gun users said Ridley was a hypocrite due to the violence present in the Star Wars franchise and saying she did not understand the issue.

Ridley then deleted the account, but briefly came back to post a message to fans. “I just want to be on my phone less! Trying to be more present and all that and got a busy few months ahead so wanted less distractions… It’s all good! :)” she wrote, per The Nerdy Bird. “I always appreciate the support and love the Instagram community! X.”

Ridley burst onto the international scene just last year when she starred as Rey in the latest installment in the Star Wars franchise alongside John Boyega and Oscar Isaac. She is set to return in Episode VIII next year.

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