Bollywood actor Ileana D`Cruz has strongly criticised online trolls who targeted global pop star Rihanna over her appearance after the birth of her third child. The backlash began after recent photos of Rihanna stepping out with her son in Los Angeles surfaced online, with several social media users commenting on her post pregnancy body and questioning why she had not “bounced back.”
Illeana D`Cruz slams trolls attacking Rihanna
Reacting to the negativity, Ileana took to Instagram to express her anger and disappointment. “This makes me so mad,” she wrote, calling out the unrealistic and unfair expectations placed on women, especially new mothers.
In a strongly worded note, she defended Rihanna and highlighted the physical and emotional journey of motherhood. “She’s a powerful woman! She made a whole baby and birthed that baby and is feeding and keeping that baby alive and healthy, yet the question is, ‘why hasn’t she bounced back yet?’ Bloody infuriating unrealistic expectations,” Ileana stated. Her message quickly resonated with many, who praised her for speaking up against body shaming.
The criticism aimed at Rihanna included comparisons to her pre pregnancy photos and insensitive remarks about her changing body. Some comments even suggested that physical changes after childbirth are the reason “rich men date younger women,” sparking outrage among fans who called such statements regressive and misogynistic.
Ileana D`Cruz talks about motherhood and postpartum
Ileana, who is herself a mother, emphasised how damaging these standards can be. Her response underscored a larger conversation about postpartum recovery and the pressure women face to look a certain way almost immediately after giving birth. By defending Rihanna publicly, she reminded audiences that motherhood is a transformative experience and that bodies naturally change.
Rihanna has previously spoken about embracing her post pregnancy body and refusing to conform to societal expectations. She has consistently projected confidence and self acceptance, encouraging women to feel comfortable in their own skin.
Ileana’s firm stance has since sparked widespread discussion online, with many applauding her for using her voice responsibly. The incident has once again highlighted how celebrity mothers are often scrutinised unfairly, and why conversations around body positivity and empathy remain more important than ever.