‘Inappropriate’: David Beckham’s Photo with Daughter Harper, 12, Causes Big Stir & 6 Other Celebrity Controversies Involving Kids

Online users were agitated by David Beckham’s adorable picture of his 12-year-old daughter Harper.
This scandal comes after a slew of celebrity parenting incidents that have provoked contentious discussions.

Every post on social media these days has the potential to go viral very rapidly. Celebrities frequently get into hot water over parenting practices that are deemed good or poor.

Consider David Beckham as an example. Mixed emotions have been evoked by his cute images of himself with his daughter. Each of these incidents—from his public demonstrations of devotion towards his kid to his celebrity mom’s kisses, which some find concerning—sparked intense discussions and divergent viewpoints.

David Beckham with his daughter Harper at the Burberry “London in Los Angeles” event on April 16, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Hilary Duff’s Disneyland Kiss with Her Son

Actress Hilary Duff shared a cute photo of herself and her son on Instagram back in 2016. She uploaded a photo of herself during a fun day at Disneyland kissing her kid, Luca, on the lips.

“The happiest location on earth is the happiest happiest happiest happiest happiest… “We adore you, @disneyland 🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🐻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻❤️🙌🏻ϟ,” Duff wrote as the photo’s caption.

The seemingly innocent photo soon became the subject of controversy, with many individuals taking issue with the loving gesture on the internet. “Causing PAIN, and possible infection, to an infant for no purpose other than fashion IS child abuse,” someone said.

Some who thought the kiss was inappropriate also referred to Duff as “disgusting”. One user added, “I can’t see this pic the same no more,” and another just wrote, “Sick.”

“I’ve seen stuff on the internet a couple of years back when we were at Disneyland and I posted a picture of Luca and me kissing on the lips,” Duff said in reflection on the event. People thought that was awful.

“For anyone commenting that a kiss on the lips with my four-year-old is ‘inappropriate,’ go ahead and click a quick unfollow with your warped minds and judgment,” Duff said in reaction to the mom-shaming.

Duff recommended everyone to put their own needs ahead of criticism from others and stressed the importance of taking into account other people’s viewpoints. She pointed out that individuals frequently hold strong beliefs, but it’s usually best to disregard them and look for the funny side of things.

The singer and actress also revealed that she had received backlash for piggybacking her six-year-old son. Nevertheless, she emphasized how crucial it is to decide what’s best for your own family.

Gabrielle Union’s Newborn Kissing Clip

Actress Gabrielle Union posted a heartwarming photo of herself and her newborn daughter to Instagram in December 2018. The video, titled “Kissing Game,” featured Union planting a kiss on her infant daughter’s mouth. She had my heartstrings pulled. @kaaviajames 💋💋💋.”

However, some social media users swiftly reacted negatively to the post. Quick to voice their disgust, critics said things like “That’s not a right.”

“Dats how u make babies sick, their immune system aint built that strong,” posted a another social media user. That’s adorable, but let’s get real. Many supporters rallied around Union despite the unfavorable responses.

“Kiss her every day, show that mommy love, she came out of your business, so it’s your business where you kiss her,” was one of the encouraging remarks. A different person typed, “Mommy, you never stop showing that love 😍😍😍.”

Union responded to the criticism on Instagram a short while later. “Hey guys, I appreciate all the concern about kisses on the mouth and labored breathing,” the actress said in part of her letter. I am fortunate enough to have a nurse accompany me to work.”

“Kaav is in good health, and I cleanse and sanitize everything and everyone that comes into contact with her before I even touch her. Union said, “If you think I waited this long and went through all of this to put my baby in danger, you got another thing coming (sic).”

David Beckham’s Affection Towards His Daughter

Early in June 2024, at an Inter Miami game versus St. Louis in Fort Lauderdale, David Beckham was photographed spending a precious moment with his daughter Harper Beckham.

As a co-owner of the team, Beckham thought the team would luck out with his kid by his side. They gave it their best shot, but the game ended in a draw.

Legendary soccer star Lionel Messi became the first player in MLS history to reach 25 goal contributions in a single season. But it wasn’t the outcome of the match that grabbed everyone’s attention.

Rather, it was a tender moment between Beckham and his kid. Harper may be seen in the pictures standing in her father’s arms as he encircles her waist.

David and Harper Beckham during the Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season soccer match between Inter Miami CF and St. Louis CITY SC in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in June 1, 2024. | Source: Getty Images

Online users were quick to criticize the former soccer star’s behavior, sparking a heated debate. “As sweet and innocent as it may be, it’s no longer appropriate,” a commenter said. Harper now has a youthful appearance. similar to the “empty nest syndrome.”

Another said, “It’s a little embarrassing to see that picture. Put one arm around her shoulder, perhaps, but I think that photo is over the top.” “Cringeworthy pictures for goodness sake,” remarked a third critic. She appears to be around eighteen. In addition, It appears completely out of place.”

David and Harper Beckham during the Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season soccer match between Inter Miami CF and St. Louis CITY SC in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in June 1, 2024. | Source: Getty Images

However, a lot of people defended Beckham and complimented him on being a caring and outspoken father. Supporting comments from a fan said, “She’s very lucky to have such a loving father who’s not afraid to express his love towards her.” They went on:

“My self-esteem has suffered greatly, especially as a young woman, because my father has never given me a hug, expressed his appreciation for me, or demonstrated any genuine interest in my life. In my opinion, having a loving father is one of the greatest advantages a girl can have, therefore I’ve always admired ladies who had one.”

Harper and David Beckham at the Victoria Beckham FW23 show during Paris Fashion Week on March 3, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

Another admirer remarked, “He’s a devoted father. It’s good to see children that are truly loved.” “She’s a daddy’s girl, twelve years old,” a third person said. From the day I was born, my father harbored animosity towards me and did not try to conceal it. It’s nice to observe their sweet relationship.”

A post that Beckham made on Instagram in April 2024 sparked the current debate. The former soccer player was pictured in black and white with his kid, who appeared to be perched on her father’s lap.

“My little one is maturing 🥹 @brooklynpeltzbeckham @romeobeckham @cruzbeckham 🥊 @victoriabeckham My lads are getting ready. fantastic work, mama 🤍,” the caption said.

Several people on social media took issue with the caption. “Let her enjoy her childhood; she’s only 12 years old,” someone said in a comment. In response, someone else said, “What a horrible thing to say, you should be ashamed of yourself.”

However, Beckham has made waves with his tender gestures on other occasions as well. A picture of him kissing his five-year-old daughter on the lips at a beach vacation in 2011 prompted a discussion about parental limits.

Beckham justified his behavior by claiming that, as a result of his upbringing, he is “very affectionate” with his children. Many of his fans stood by him in spite of the conflicting opinions. Someone commented, “A father having a bond with his child is nothing less than beautiful.”

Olivia Wilde’s Kiss with Her Son

Actress Olivia Wilde shared a touching photo of herself and her kid on Instagram in 2017. With the caption, “Finding hope in this ❤,” the picture saw Wilde giving her baby a bath and kissing him on the mouth.

What was supposed to be a tender moment turned contentious very fast, and detractors were ready to express their disagreement. “@oliviawilde you should not have this up here,” someone said in the comments.

“It’s unbelievable that you kiss your son in such a way! 😩,” wrote another commenter. “Everyone finds it cute and sweet, but on the other hand,” said a third. “Don’t parents and children need to have boundaries?”

But many supporters of Wilde stood by her, applauding her candor and affectionate demeanor. One admirer wrote, “@oliviawilde Don’t let the harsh words keep you from living transparently. The relationship between a boy and his mama is special💜.”

“How charming! I adore your kissing!” said an additional person. “This is such a beautiful photo—how anyone could think this is wrong is beyond me,” wrote a third person. This image captures pure love. 💕”

Wilde addressed the matter on Twitter in reaction to the backlash, saying, “Homies, we got bigger fish to fry.” SET UP VISION. #theworldasweknowit is ending.

Jessica Alba’s Surprise at Parental Kissing Norms

Actress Jessica Alba revealed in March 2014 that she was somewhat aback to see that some parents avoid giving their children a kiss on the lips. “Are you serious? She exclaimed, “It’s your baby. Why?!” Dogs are allowed to kiss people’s mouths.”

Alba’s frank response demonstrated her conviction in the value of affection between parents and children. She continues to post precious moments with her kids on social media, almost ten years later.

In 2023, she took to Instagram to celebrate her son Hayes’ first day of kindergarten. The post featured three pictures, including one of Alba leaning in to kiss her son on the lips.

Jessica Alba leaning in to peck her son Hayes on the lips. | Source: Instagram/jessicaalba

“Hayes’ first day of #kindergarten 🥹❤️ my handsome boy 😫💔😢… it’s just crazy how fast time has flown by. Still my baby,” the caption read.

Coco Austin’s Underwater Kiss with Her Daughter

During a fun-filled pool day in August 2023, Coco Austin experienced a touching moment with her kid. The celebrity shared a video of herself and Chanel kissing underwater, capturing a tender and fun moment between mother and daughter.

“Having fun with my Samsung phone, it actually takes great video underwater,” is how Austin described the video. Does Chanel not just like giving her mother kisses? She is quite cute. She is my #motherdaughterlove #mermaid passion.”

The video received mixed reviews online, despite its noble intentions. A few individuals expressed discomfort, with one writing, “This weirded me out.” “This is becoming weird,” said another, to which someone retorted, “becoming? It has been peculiar.

Only two days had passed since Austin had faced criticism for sharing photos of herself on Instagram featuring a pink, blue, and purple bikini. She held her legs out in a posture for one of the pictures.

Critics weren’t slow to express their views. “You’re a mother now, grow up,” another person said, and yet another said, “What a poor, disgusting example she is for her child.”

The issues surrounding these celebrities demonstrate how much public personalities’ parenting decisions are scrutinized. Some claim that these acts are excessive, yet others defend them as acts of love.

These discussions serve as a reminder of the importance of accepting varying parenting philosophies and the special and intimate relationship that exists between a parent and child.