GAT’s Ethan David says ’13 years old’ remark in viral video refers to him
Ethan David. Image: Instagram/@ethandavidd
Ethan David spoke up against the “false narratives” that stemmed from his viral video with some BINI members and internet personality Shawn Castro, saying that the “13 years old” remark heard in the clip was referring to him.
David, a member of P-pop boy group GAT, earlier came under fire after a video of him and Castro seemingly joking around and making suggestive movements made rounds on social media.
BINI members Jhoanna, Colet and Stacey were heard laughing at the two and making mention of a certain “Ashley” and one being “13 years old.”
The five individuals then issued an apology regarding the matter. David, for his part, released another statement on Thursday, May 15, in an effort to “clarify the speculations online.”
“Over the past few days, I have been receiving a significant amount of hate across social media platforms, which has taken a toll on my mental health. It is painful to see false narratives being spread especially ones that affect not only me but also the people close to me,” he lamented.
“To clarify the confusion surrounding the video, the joking comments heard in the video led to a misunderstanding that I was grooming a 13 year old. In reality, I was the 13 year old being referred to,” he said. “The situation being discussed dates back to a time when I was a young teenager experiencing innocent puppy love during my time in Canada.”
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David stressed that he has never been involved in a relationship with a minor and that he is not one to tolerate such a behavior.
“I have always been firmly against it. The accusations being made are not only baseless but extremely damaging,” he stated.
The artist also said that while it pains him to share a private information, it was necessary for him to speak up.
“Out of respect for the privacy of the other individual involved, I will not name anyone. However, I want to emphasize that it was nothing more than a harmless, age-appropriate childhood experience,” he said.
“Again, I apologize to those who were affected by this issue, especially my friends and family,” he added. “I understand that I made a mistake and I will carry this experience moving forward with greater awareness and respect.” /ra
