Halle Bailey's pregnancy is among the most talked about on social media in the past year. Netizens and fans have sleuthed over the topic, and opinions were thrown around largely.
Eventually, Bailey surprised everyone when she announced she had given birth to her son, Halo. Now, she profoundly recalls the struggle she experienced throughout her pregnancy journey.
Halle Bailey Emotionally Recalls Pregnancy Pregnancy Journey
As Halle Bailey was honored at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood luncheon, she talked about the struggles of her pregnancy as she was subjected to backlash and controversy during a tough time. The intense speculation came after she was being dragged for her casting as Ariel in "The Little Mermaid."
"During one of my proudest moments being cast as Ariel, that's when I discovered two things about being Black in Hollywood," Bailey added. "It can be unfair and it can expose you to criticism just for being you. Not because you're a bad actor or you've given a poor performance, but just because you look like you do."
As she thanked people, she also mentioned Halo; Bailey became emotional. (via USA Today)
"There was no way in hell I was going to share the biggest joy of my world with anyone," she said, holding back her tears. "Halo was my gift. I had no obligation to expose him, me, or my family to that unyielding spotlight.
Bailey was also criticized recently when she posted photos and videos of her during her secret pregnancy. Still, she remains upfront with her unfiltered thoughts about why she decided to hide it.
"With the state of the world, and men trying to force their will on women's bodies, no one on social media was going to tell me what to share," she added. "Remember when Zion David Marley, who came from a queen named Lauryn Hill, entered the world? Do you remember how private Beyoncé was about her pregnancy? Every woman in the world has the right to choose what to do with their bodies."
READ MORE: Halle Bailey's Pregnancy Not Planned: Baby Daddy DDG Says 'It kinda just happened'
Halle Bailey Pregnancy
Like her casting for "Little Mermaid," Halle Bailey's pregnancy has been controversial. She hid all of her pregnancy in the past few months despite intensified speculation on social media.
On Jan. 6, 2023, Halle Bailey shocked the world on Instagram when she confirmed that she gave birth to her first child, Halo.
"Even though we're a few days into the new year, the greatest thing that 2023 could have done for me, was bring me my son.. welcome to the world my halo," she wrote in an Instagram post along with Halo's little hand. "The world is desperate to know you."
READ ALSO: Sterling K. Brown, Wife Raves Over Halle Bailey Amid Pregnancy, 'Little Mermaid' Success
