
OnlyFans star Skyler Simpson is under fire after her satirical weather report recorded during Hurricane Helene sparked backlash online. Decked out in a bright pink bikini, Simpson braved the flooded streets of Tampa with an umbrella in hand, cheekily narrating the storm's aftermath. However, the lighthearted approach was not well-received, given the hurricane's deadly toll, which claimed over 160 lives and caused significant destruction across the Southeast.
Simpson's impromptu broadcast, punctuated with laughter and ice cubes thrown her way, quickly went viral, amassing 1.8 million TikTok views and over 23,000 likes on Instagram and X. Despite the storm's intensity, she played down its severity, suggesting the night was perfect for a family stroll. Her carefree demeanor and humorous take on the tragic event led to fierce criticism, with many accusing her of insensitivity.
The video prompted strong reactions from the public. While some found the humor in her satire, others condemned her for seemingly mocking a devastating tragedy. "Hope a portion of the benefits you got through the likes on this reel you sent some help to the families in need," one Instagram user commented, echoing the sentiment of many.
“Plenty of people actually affected by this have commented and laughed,” Simpson defended herself. “I had family affected. They know it’s humor of news reporters.”
Simpson, who holds a bachelor’s degree in communication science from the University of South Florida, responded to critics by explaining that her video was a parody of typical news reports. She maintained her stance, encouraging those offended to unfollow her.
Despite the backlash, Simpson stood firm, refusing to remove the video from her social media profiles. She addressed safety concerns about the water she waded through, assuring followers she took appropriate measures, such as washing off immediately and using hydrogen peroxide. Her unapologetic approach has continued to divide opinions online, with some appreciating the humor and others remaining critical.
As Hurricane Helene subsides, the public's reaction to Simpson's stunt underscores the delicate balance influencers must navigate when blending humor with sensitive topics. With the storm responsible for nearly 166 deaths, the timing and tone of her video remain contested.