One Direction’s Liam Payne was effusive in his Twitter “fan letter” to Willie Robertson of “Duck Dynasty” fame. That led to some backlash, including this tweet from openly gay YouTube personality Tyler Oakley:
Wow. Very confused and disappointed by this @Real_Liam_Payne tweet. This literally changes everything… pic.twitter.com/aQajQdJhfQ
— tyler oakley (@tyleroakley) January 18, 2014
If you defend someone actively supporting bigotry, homophobia, and ignorance, we're not on the same wavelength to even have a discussion.
— tyler oakley (@tyleroakley) January 18, 2014
One Direction’s fans immediately began tweeting Oakley in defense of Payne, in the process making Oakley a trending topic.
I live for the ignorance in my replies right now. I've never seen so many tweens telling me to kill myself and to leave the fandom. Amazing.
— tyler oakley (@tyleroakley) January 18, 2014
I'm okay with losing followers over this; I'd rather give LGBT teens support than look the other way & accept bigotry to appease a fanbase.
— tyler oakley (@tyleroakley) January 18, 2014
For his part, Payne offered a quick clarification.
Being a fan of someones show and the way they still hold a family together doesnt mean i am ok with all they say.
— Liam (@LiamPayne) January 18, 2014
@Real_Liam_Payne thank you! People are so annoying they assume to much shit
— Nikki (@UnitedUnderZayn) January 18, 2014
@UnitedUnderZayn always assuming , makes twitter no fun and no point
— Liam (@LiamPayne) January 18, 2014
@Real_Liam_Payne people are just stupid and dumb babe you don't need to explain yourself babe I love you
— maz ? (@disc0worms) January 18, 2014
@hsmharry i do when im being called something im not , people can love who they want , its none of my business
— Liam (@LiamPayne) January 18, 2014