Jesy Nelson is being subjected to severe trolling over the blackfishing row, say friends.
The ex-Little Mix singer has been hounded after former bandmate Leigh-Anne Pinnock appeared to accuse her of trying to look darker skinned in her Boyz video.
A source close to the band said: “It’s all getting a bit much.
“The last thing she wanted was to be embroiled in a Little Mix vs Jesy feud. The Girls have been through a lot together and she truly believes everyone can co exist in the industry without the war of words."
Leigh-Anne’s fiancé, Andre Gray, appeared to refer to the row in a speech at her 30th birthday party on Saturday. He said: “If you’re going to try and disrespect my baby mother, my wife, fiancée and children, there’s gonna be a problem.”
The source added: “Jesy’s team are trying to protect her from negative trolls. Comments about ‘disrespect’ only amplify things further. Everyone needs to take a step back.”
Jesy, 30, who has launched a solo career, has appeared in a BBC documentary about online trolls.
She said comments about her appearance made her so unhappy she wanted to die.
Leigh-Anne, who is mixed race and had twin boys in August, defended her “character” at Saturday’s bash, telling pals: “I’m so proud of everything I’ve achieved.”
Rapper Nicki Minaj, who appears on Jesy’s debut single Boyz, has accused Leigh-Anne and bandmates Jade Thirwall and Perrie Edwards of trying to ruin Jesy’s solo career.
She said: "I'm 30 years old. I know my character, you know my character, anyone that meets me knows my f***ing character – and that’s all I care about.
"I’m so proud of everything I’ve achieved. The most beautiful fiancé, who I’m still obsessed with even after five years. I love you. And the two most beautiful, perfect babies. Everything I stand for, everything I'm fighting for, it's for them [the twins].
"I will never stop. I have found my voice now and I will continue to use it. Tonight we celebrate life, best friends and amazing family. I love you all."
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