Ava Raine Faces Backlash Over Insensitive Comment After Charlie Kirk’s Assassination

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson’s daughter, Ava Raine, has sparked outrage by making a controversial statement on social media shortly after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The incident has drawn reactions from fans, sparking discussions about sensitivity, timing, and social responsibility.

Background on the Assassination

Charlie Kirk was tragically assassinated while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. This shocking event not only sent ripples through the political community but also raised questions about the reactions from public figures and influencers.

What Ava Raine Posted

Ava Raine, 24, who has recently ventured into wrestling like her father, made her comments on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. She shared a post from comedian Gianmarco Soresi that read:

“If you want people to have kind words when you pass, you should say kind things when you’re alive.”

Though the post did not directly mention Kirk, Ava commented on her X account:

“and i’ll stand behind this. be kind, now more than ever.”

This was interpreted by many as a jab at Kirk, particularly given the timing of her post. The backlash was swift, with numerous fans expressing their displeasure online.

Reactions from Fans and Critics

Some fans were unhappy with Ava’s remarks. Comments included:

• “Be kind or get assassinated?? I’m sure you’ve said something unkind—what an idiotic statement.”
• “@WWE @TKOGrp does TKO and WWE stand behind this?”
• “If you’re not unemployed by the end of the day, this shifts to WWE itself. If TKO wants to lose customers, that’s their issue.”

A viral GIF of her father, shouting “Shut up, bitch,” during a wrestling match also circulated, indicating the mixed feelings around her comments.

Job Losses Over Insensitivity

A number of public figures faced repercussions for similar comments regarding Kirk’s assassination. Here are a few notable instances:

• Charlie Rock, a communications coordinator for the Carolina Panthers, was fired for making an “insensitive social media post.”
• Matthew Dowd, an MSNBC political analyst, was dismissed for suggesting that a supporter might have celebrated Kirk’s death with gunfire.
• Ted Berry, a board member of the Joe Burrow Foundation, was removed due to offensive comments about Kirk’s murder.

These actions reflect a growing trend of public accountability, especially for those in influential positions.

Honoring Charlie Kirk’s Legacy

While some comments were deemed inappropriate, others took steps to honor Kirk’s legacy. Notably:

• The New York Yankees observed a moment of silence for Kirk at their Thursday game.
• The New York Jets honored him with a tribute, displaying photos of him and his family during the game.

Teams like the Bengals, Lions, Colts, Vikings, and Ravens chose not to participate in these moments of remembrance, a decision that has sparked discussion about respect and memory in sports.

The Alleged Assailant

Authorities have identified Tyler Robinson, 22, as the alleged assassin of Charlie Kirk. He is expected to face charges of aggravated murder. In Utah, this crime carries severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty, should the prosecution pursue it.

Conclusion

The intersection of public commentary, tragedy, and social media continues to spark debate in our society. Ava Raine’s post serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with public influence, particularly in sensitive times. The reactions to her statement reflect the complex dynamics of support, accountability, and compassion in the face of sorrow.

For ongoing updates on this evolving story, follow reliable news sources like The New York Post and MSNBC.