BBC The Traitors star Paul Gorton opens up on 'gingerism' abuse as he reveals he was headbutted for colour of his hair
29.03.2024 - 14:01
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
BBC The Traitors star Paul Gorton has opened up about the 'gingerism' abuse he's faced throughout his life, even being headbutted because of his hair colour.
Paul, 36, revealed he's been picked on all his life because of his locks, as he recalls: "I realised I was different when I was at primary school and I stuck out like a sore thumb.
"As I got older, the negative comments kicked in. I had to develop a thick skin as soon as possible. I tried to go along with the joke, even though I was the butt of the joke, which is complicated to look back on."
Now, Paul is using his experiences to help others and raise awareness about the effects of bullying. He's become an ambassador for the National Bullying Helpline, which gets 5,000 clicks a day.
Speaking about his own experience, Paul told the Mirror: "The problem is that people don't take 'gingerism' seriously, but it can really affect people and I want those who are suffering cruel taunts at the hands of bullies to know that there is help and that I understand what they are going through."
Dad-of-one Paul was reminded of his own painful memories recently when a friend's child told him he'd been teased over his ginger hair.
He shares: "I was really triggered recently as my friend's young son was bullied for having ginger hair.
"It made me realise it's still going on. Bullying someone for their hair colour is not OK. This boy is a bright kid and received an award at school recently, but when the headteacher came to give it to him, he remarked he wasn't sure if he should receive it because of his hair.
"The lad came home upset and asked his dad if that was a normal thing. The idea that's happening today is a disgrace. A teacher should know that's not a joke to make to a young kid."
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