The Great British Backlash Begins…
April 28, 2009
Didn’t take long, did it?
The Susan Boyle backlash has already started, and pretty unedifying it is too.
She’s had a ‘terrible’ makeover, she’s ‘cracking up’, she ‘lied’ about not being kissed…and so on.
It’s so typically British to do this, and so utterly pathetic.
Susan is a lovely, decent, church-going, modest and kind woman who is dealing with becoming the hottest star on the planet with remarkable patience and good humour.
She is a fabulous advertisement for our country, and her success is a wonderful testament to the powers of persistence, positive thought, and living a dream, however unlikely the chances of realising it.
Those who seek to knock her down just when that dream finally comes true in the most sensational fashion possible, are nothing but cruel, heartless toads.
They should just all shut up, give Susan a break, and let her enjoy her extraordinary moment in the global spotlight.
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Piers’ Daily Rants contain the personal opinion of Piers Morgan and are likely to offend, upset and annoy virtually everyone. The opinions belong solely to Piers and do not reflect those of iViva.com, The Daily Mail, ITV or indeed anyone who pays him money for being nice.
April 28, 2009 at 11:23 am
Rebecca says
Exactly!
Excellant rant.
April 28, 2009 at 12:29 pm
AW says
Nicely said. Susan must be under a lot of strain with all the attention. I hope she can put aside the hype and enjoy the moment.
April 28, 2009 at 12:33 pm
Pat says
Well said, Piers. Why can’t people just be happy for someone who’s had a rough go of it in life and finaly gets a chance to do what she loves?
April 28, 2009 at 1:07 pm
mary says
totally agree. That was one of reasons I don’t like Brit. media. They were always negative. Piers, I am glad that you post it here. It would be great if this rant published on Brit. papers, so let them know and feel their shame. By the way, I think Susan should start concerts, world tour right now, not after BGT finals. Please take good care of Susan. Love you both!
Mary, toronto, Canada
April 28, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Cindy says
I’m sorry this backlash has started even before she’s even gotten to the semi finals. She’ll shut them up though. She’s her own women and if she wants to get a new outfit,a new do, she should be intitled without being under a microscope…geez…British press…GET OVER YOURSELVES!
April 28, 2009 at 1:27 pm
Deb in Canada says
Perfect. I admire you for your always positive comments about Ms Boyle. I am hating the press and their back handed compliments “dowdy songbird” and worse - but I hope this isn’t a publicity stunt on the part of the show to increase the ratings even further. You have all became that much more famous, and richer, on this story and now the whole world wants too see BGT also. She better get her cut here regardless.
She IS is a lovely, decent, church-going, modest and kind woman with class and integrity. I hope the show has provided her with good, objective people at this point to help her make sound decisions. If she gets spit out at this point (and I do NOT mean if she doesn’t win the contest), it will be ALL on the backs of BGT and those associated the show.
April 28, 2009 at 1:30 pm
Deb in Canada says
BTW The Americans are the same, they love to build them up just to rip them down also. Mean and masty little worms. (no offense meant to innocent worms out there)
April 28, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Digital Mischief says
Susan bashing already? Not the first thing I wanted to read this morning. Geez, she hasn’t even got her celeb feet wet yet. While it is irritating, I chalk it up to ’selling more papers’ which controversy and gossip does. I hope Susan keeps her head up and just keeps going. There’s always going to be grumpy, jealous people in the world.
April 28, 2009 at 2:42 pm
Kim says
I have seen a few backlash stories in the American media, but they have generated an angry torrent of replies from devoted Susan Boyle fans - me included. That is the beauty of the internet - we have a voice and can respond!
I was very happy to read that she has no intention of quitting BGT, that she is nervous but otherwise doing well. We are all pulling for her!
April 28, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Catherine says
People should stop being such crabs and get over themselves. What do they care if she gets a makeover? I’m sure she is doing it for herself and not because she wants more publicity out of it. They should just be happy for her, knowing the kind of life she had before this big break.
I hope Susan ignores all the flak that’s being thrown at her right now. She definitely deserves more than that!
April 28, 2009 at 2:47 pm
Edie says
Couldn’t agree with you more. Why can’t we just enjoy her talent and not be bothered with speculations about her personal life that don’t matter and are none of our business? I intend to support Susan and hope that she gets the opportunities she needs to showcase her voice.
April 28, 2009 at 3:49 pm
Sandi from the States says
Unfortunately, sensationalism sells. It is becoming the norm. Innocent people are being sucked into this sick environment all over the world. Susan, you need to look the other way. Do not let these people influence you. Remember, always be true to yourself. You cannot lose that way.
April 28, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Nicole says
Is it really British or simply human?
Relax, enjoy and feel poor for all those who cannot share the joy of others. This might be the perfect reaction to all those who know better, think they can do better and, while arguing, totally miss the point.
Who cares? I am sure Susan will not.
April 28, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Ursaline says
Mr. Morgan,
I think that it’s interesting that you are being so nice to Miss Boyle. She deserves nothing less than to have people sticking up for her when she’s being surrounded by so much attention and criticism.
And while the kids from the last couple of weeks have in their own right been quite fabulous, I still think that Susan has far more presence and control over her talent. And she looks lovely — I can’t wait to see her sing again. So nice to have something positive to look forward to!
Let’s hope that all goes well and hopefully you don’t feel too overshadowed by her sudden notoriety. I think that the two of you should have some really great conversation.
Ursaline in New Braunfels, TX USA
April 28, 2009 at 6:26 pm
Missteek says
Well said Piers.
You see this type of disruptive and nasty comment online - they are known as TROLLS.
But the press had very nasty headlines about Susan, I shall not repeat them. Then she does what any other women on the planet earth does … has her hair done & a facial.
They whoever they are, were complaining about her plain appearance, then ‘they’ pulled her apart, that is the media for you.
But us, the little people fully support Susan, to the end.
I’m sure Susan has fulfilled one part of her dream to have an audience, she said she would make the ”rock” and she did. NO ONE CAN TAKE THAT AWAY FROM HER.
There is far more positive comment than negative, but sad that this country is, as always to knock something that is good.
This country doesn’t understand good. They understand greed - Fred-the-Shred … yep thats what the media understands.
April 28, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Laura says
Amen.
April 28, 2009 at 8:48 pm
fossilbarb says
We love Susan in the USA!
April 29, 2009 at 1:56 am
bluewren says
Great Piers. Way to go!
April 29, 2009 at 3:46 am
Iowan says
Looking forward to Susan Boyle Win the Britain’s Got Talent on May 30, 2009.
When does she sing for the Queen?
April 29, 2009 at 4:20 am
Chrissy says
Amazing how adolesence doesn’t go away in some people. Have you had your date with Susan? I hope you both still want to go through with it.
April 29, 2009 at 6:15 am
Canadagirl says
Thank you for speaking out! Go Susan! You have our support in Canada! Ignore the garbage and know that you’re a true diamond that’s just been discoverred!
Canadagirl
April 29, 2009 at 1:45 pm
kimba says
well said Piers. Oddly enough, since seeing Susan I now cannot go more than a day without visiting your website… love the rants!
April 29, 2009 at 2:08 pm
mary says
Yesterday, I said that I hope Brit. paper to publish this piece. Guess what? it is on ‘Sun’ paper this morning. It is good, so more people can read this and refect on themselfs. the only point I don’t like was that they twist Piers’s words, saying Peris was aginst Susan a few days ago. that is not true.
April 29, 2009 at 6:31 pm
Plain Jane says
Dear Piers,
I am so happy to see that you are defending Susan when others are attacking her the way they did on the night she was on stage before the singing started. She has the best talent, more so than those superficially “made” bimbos with no talent and just pretty to look at. Susan Boyle is a good and kind person, who had endured a difficult life, and this breakthrough is her chance to get better life and to get people to recognize her talent. I am a nurse by proffession and my job is never to be prejudiced against any one, regardless of age. colour, race, people with different sizes and shapes. We cannot be all beautiful on the exterior.
I happen to think that Susan Boyle is an ordinary person but she is not ugly at all. She has a very nice smile. Susan Boyle is very well liked in Canada, where I live, and we all like her not only because of her angelic voice, but also her great personality and sense of humour. What is wrong with the British people that they cannot appreciate her talent. She is the pride and joy of Britain, and the British should be so proud of her. Well, if they don’t want Susan, send her to Canada, we will love and treasure her. And Piers, it is good of you to ask her out for dinner, and I am happy that she has accepted your offer. I think this “date” will upgrade her confidence in facing all the British snobs in her future music career.
By the way, I didn’t know who you were until I saw the YouTube on Susan’s performance. I didn’t like the way you look at her at first (you were just as bad as Simon and the audience), but I did like you when you change your look from a “snob” to a “dreamy I love her voice” look. I thought you look so handsome when you couldn’t take your eyes off Susan.
Now I am hooked on your website, and read articles on the Rand everyday. Piers,you are a gentleman and a very good man. Susan has good taste in men. I am not surprised that she prefer you over Simon, who only look after his bank account, whereas you Piers are more human and have more empathy than Simon.Have a wonderful date with Susan, and tell her that here in Canada we are all waiting to buy her first CD.
Admirer of Susan Boyle and now Piers Morgan
April 29, 2009 at 9:30 pm
Bethany Shinn says
Thanks from me too, Piers! Looked you up and am getting to know and like you because of Susan! I am happy to hear your commentary(:! I saw that you were genuinely blown away by her talent when she appeared on your show. And, you treated her with all the respect she deserves on Larry King. Surely, you will both have an enjoyable dinner date in London(:! Love and best wishes to you both from Michigan((:!!
April 30, 2009 at 5:33 am
Cindy says
I’m so excited to hear her again. The ratings for the semi finals will be through the roof. All because of Sue. What an inspiration she is. I wish I lived in the UK to vote for her.
Piers, tell her we love her in America.
April 30, 2009 at 2:08 pm
Melody NEW YORK says
We love her here in the USA and who cares what she did to her hair!!!?? She is still an inspirational person and deserves to be treated as such. Negativity is not allowed here. Keep smiling Miss Susan we are rooting for your success.
April 30, 2009 at 11:35 pm
bluewren says
I am not a Brit,but always had a high opinion of them until now that is didn’t know they could stoop that low. I think those people are the minority though. Because there are so many millions who love and suppport her,the others just have to be the usual mean freaky minority.
It does seem to me there is another power involved in this It is bordering on the miraculous I reckon.Lets face it that quality in her voice coming from a not in the least comely but naive inexperienced and sweet woman is amazing in it’s strength depth of feeling and power to move us.
Yep I reckon it is a wakeup call for all.So better tread carefully and heed it.And you knockers watch yourselves,unexplained disasters may just begin to happen in your lives.Remember from the Bible “Reveng e is Mine saith the Lord I will repay.”
MMMnnnnnnnn?Think I will go to Mass tomorrow.>:-(.
May 1, 2009 at 1:45 am
Ann Brown says
Piers Morgan….you so so sweet to support Susan Boyle. I have watched the video 25 times and I love your adoring look as you watch Susan Sing. I just wished I was younger and you were available because you are my kinda guy…I love the way you talk. I live in Deale Maryland….If you are ever in Annapolis, please come see me. Love… Ann Brown
May 2, 2009 at 4:18 am
Teresa Lewis says
Thank you Piers for standing up for Susan, well said, it is the truth. She deserves the right to enjoy a dream come true. I rejoice for her and with her. I pray she is strong enough to discern and discard that which could harm her. Thank you for being such a gentleman and inviting her to dinner. That was a precious thing to do. Just think, if it had not been for Susan’s desire to fulfill her mothers request, we would have never heard tht beautiful voice. Good for her. She truly is a beautiful graceful woman inside and out.
With all the world’s attention what woman would not deisre to look her best, if given the chance?
from Oregon, Teresa
May 2, 2009 at 4:21 am
Teresa Lewis says
Thank you Piers for standing up for Susan, well said, it is the truth. She deserves the right to enjoy a dream come true. I rejoice for her and with her. I pray she is strong enough to discern and discard that which could harm her. Thank you for being such a gentleman and inviting her to dinner. That was a precious thing to do. Just think, if it had not been for Susan’s desire to fulfill her mothers request, we would have never heard that beautiful voice. Good for her. She truly is a beautiful graceful woman inside and out.
With all the world’s attention what woman would not deisre to look her best, if given the chance?
from Oregon, Teresa
May 2, 2009 at 5:57 am
Mary Jo says
Considering how they shredded Prince Charles & Lady Diana, it’s not surprising. If I’m not mistaken, the tradition of the British press attacking celebrities goes back close to 300 years. Collectively, they make a pretty impressive dragon.
Mr. Morgan, have you ever considered that you might be a reincarnation of St. George? (I hope I will not receive a bolt of lightning from you, OR God, for making such a comparison.)
May 3, 2009 at 5:10 am
Kimberly says
Like so many, I’m so appreciative of this inspiring story. Piers, I was listening to your interview on the Larry King Show. You summed it up beautifully when you said in the midst of this global recession, Susan has single-handedly given the world something to smile about. What a wonderful legacy!
(And by the way, I concur with Susan…you would definitely be my pick. I hope your dinner goes well (lucky girl).)
May 3, 2009 at 6:42 pm
thedolphinlady says
Hurrah
for Susan……….just follow your dream! At your age (1 less) I found a dream with dolpphins and for the last 19 years have had it filled. Just listen to your heart Susan and God will talk and walk you through it. Your Pastor however should keep his mouth shut :(…..I am a Catholic and could not believe his British press release :()
May 4, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Denizio Valdez says
I agree Piers. We do the same here in the USA; put someone on a pedastol and then we can’t wait to knock them off. I will never understand that. Maybe it’s a form of envy. Who knows. Keep up the great blogs.
Denizio
May 5, 2009 at 11:31 am
catzfromkualalumpur says
Don’t worry, Piers. I strongly believe Ms Susan Boyle will stride well in negative criticisms. She’s my age and we are tough cookies at this age. Lol.
May 5, 2009 at 6:02 pm
fossilbarb says
“Those who seek to knock her down just when that dream finally comes true in the most sensational fashion possible, are nothing but cruel, heartless toads.”
Right on Mr. Morgan!
Bet “they” love Amy Whine-house, Ozzie Odd-born, etc.
May 9, 2009 at 3:13 am
Joan says
Thank you Piers for defending the lady! Can’t stop watching Susan sing her heart out. I hope she can hold up to the negative because those type of reports don’t matter. Susan has a tremendous amount of world support out there, who are cheering her on. Susan my dear, you have lifted up our spirits and we are truly blessed to hear your lovely voice. Can’t wait to have a copy of your CD when it happens. Edmonton Alberta Canada
May 9, 2009 at 4:25 pm
lucinda, Portugal says
Brave Piers!
You´re the right person to ensure us that the debate
about Susan Boyle remains focused!
May 10, 2009 at 12:56 am
buxena says
for heaven sake , this woman is an inspiration… well said Pierce, Susan Boyle u r a star
May 10, 2009 at 12:32 pm
William says
Being out of the celebrity loop, I’d not heard of Piers before seeing Susan Boyle, but the more I hear this fellow speak, live or through commentary the more I like him.
The so-called “backlash effect” is just a lot of people realising that Susan’s dream-come-true is not theirs. So many who live hopeless lives live their lives through borrowed reverie, but the stories they borrow from are ultimately not theirs and the disatisfying realisation eventually leads to resentment. But, for those who can gather cheer from another’s good fortune, we remain loyal to the provider who gave us the story - Piers is as integral to the joy therein as is the delightful Ms Boyle herself.
All the celebrity judges held themselves in great stead, even the reactions of Simon Cowle, apparently the resident uber-critic, were exemplary - his witty summation, while staying true to his persona, gained him much credit.
(The editor who spliced the original footage deserves credit too - the impact of the segment was magnified by his or her devotion to the content - Nice job! oh anonymous editor person.)
One thing is for sure, a lot of people who’d never heard of Piers, Amanda or Simon are now very interested in them and their careers - including me. No matter what else happens with Susan, I’m now very interested in what these three people have done, and, what they will do next - in the final analysis that can’t be a bad thing.
May 10, 2009 at 11:05 pm
bluewren says
Jealousy and envy run rife in the human psychic Piers and Brits are not exclusive in that area and the desire to be knockers:-D!Your sincere appreciation of Susan Boyle’s Talent and performance is probably due to
your now privileged behind the scenes reporting on world celebrities and the entertainment world? You are in a rare position to recognise her fragile uniqueness.Is it possible for people outside the UK
to vote on BGT?
May 13, 2009 at 3:08 am
Steve says
Well said….
May 14, 2009 at 3:45 am
Kate says
Was at Heathrow when Susan Boyle came through–she’s smaller than I expected–a guy and his wife were so rude and pushy to her wanting pictures. She said she was a bit tired and tried to walk away but they kept at it until she stopped to pose. I felt sorry for her. She was much nicer to them than I would have been.
May 16, 2009 at 10:26 pm
Gareth says
I think the main problem people have with her is the fact that she’s not extrordinarily talented and that she’s showing what a shallow worthless bunch of stains on this world the media are. It’s all appearances and the media are patting themselves on the back for not hating someone for once.
“They should just all shut up, give Susan a break, and let her enjoy her extraordinary moment in the global spotlight. ”
So she’s been fretting about what critics say? That’s very shallow.
May 17, 2009 at 10:25 am
micky says
Piers..i cant agree more with your comments, you are the most level headed voice of reason and its nice to know that some people like you still exist on this plannet. best wishes micky
May 17, 2009 at 8:13 pm
kristabel says
People will do anything to make someone miserable, or just for a ‘good’ story, even talk a load of lies about someone like Susan. Susan is sweet and she’s talented. It sso unfair and I hope she isn’t letting it get her down
Love you Piers xxx
May 17, 2009 at 9:08 pm
Sara Nealy says
Thank you for defending Susan. So glad you are looking after her. But she is so spanky! I bet she can roll with the puches.She is just such a winner! She takes the cake—and the KUDOS–whatever else happens. Please keep us updated on the events. The waiting is very difficult. I love her so. And Now I love you because of her. Isn’t she wonderful! She inspires you to keep loving, no matter what. It’s part of her magic, just like her voice! More, more! Anxiously awaiting!!!!!!!!!!
May 18, 2009 at 8:27 pm
alena says
Thank you Piers . Susan is women with beautiful heard. She is original and very, very lovely.I Love you both,best wishes Alena (slovak) in Netherland
May 24, 2009 at 2:35 am
Sharron Snider says
I watch the video every day and have fallen in love with all of you-even Simon- it is the most heart warming event I have ever seen. Susan Boyle has won all our hearts in America!!!
May 26, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Sorf says
I think this years BGT should be called Britain’s Got Boyle. I feel like we’re being pushed into voting for her over everyone else. It’s just not fair! The judges keep saying things like “I think Susan Boyle has competition now” and Piers even said he thinks she will win. What is the point in even doing the semi’s and the final itself? Lets just have a week of Boyle plodding around the stage singing mediocre versions of west end classics! I for one, will NOT be voting for her. I vote Greg Pritchard to win.
May 26, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Anne says
my English is not all that good pierce but I need to get this of my chest, please be careful with Susan she might just fall head over hiels in love with you and she is last person who needs to get hurt, i am just a concerned old woman.
Anne from the netherlands.
May 27, 2009 at 4:42 am
Moms Hugs aka Eve says
Piers, Anne (5/26) is right - be very careful with Susan. To be frank, this is a thrilling time for her, which also makes her vulnerable to you. She not only has an incredible voice - absolutely pure talent (no schtick) - she has a pure heart. Be wise about your attentions.
An older, wiser woman concerned for Susan’s long-term well being & happiness…
May 29, 2009 at 12:05 am
Nancy says
Piers-
Someone has got to give Susan Boyle a real hand and help, at least through the next two days.
BGT has never experienced this type of exposure, and the officials who run the show need to think of ways to help all of the finalists. It seems like it’s only getting worse.
You know the press better than most. There must be some way to constructively get through teh next 48 hours with everyone’s dignity in tacked. Hopefully, you will find a way.
Nancy
May 29, 2009 at 10:15 am
Traci says
Susan is a breath of fresh air. I was offended when everyone went on adinfinitum about her appearance… it had nothing to do with that, while that caused some to make some preconceived assumptions. It had everything to do with her wonderful, wonderful voice. I do not tire of hearing her sing. I look forward to purchasing an album and it doesn’t matter if she wins or not!
May 31, 2009 at 11:19 pm
"boxerpaws" Sarver says
Ditto Piers.
Thanks for saying it but it’s not going to stop the tigers and it may have been ONE of several reasons Susan came in 2nd.The other is the nagging question;did folks just not bother to call in?
Look,as much as we would love to have her come to the States-she won here. We’re all anxiously waiting for her first CD-if she wishes to return to her little village and get back to normal.By all means.She should be permitted. We would have a loss and miss her terribly but she is not ours.
We would forever keep her in our hearts,thoughts and prayres.It has to be her choice and what would be best for HER.
June 1, 2009 at 8:40 am
Dee says
Regrettably I was not surprised at this mornings news that SuBo is taking some time out. She was shaking like a leaf on stage whilst awaiting the result on Saturday. I was willing the boys just to walk over and give her a huge hug.
Get well quickly Susan, you have an amasing life just waiting, go for it girl and enjoy it!
June 1, 2009 at 1:30 pm
mainelady2 says
My heart goes out to Susan and I hope she recovers quickly. She has a whole career just waiting for her and I hope she grabs it with gusto and shows all those that didn’t give her credit for the talent that she has. Piers and Simmon please stand by her and give her what ever she needs.
We in the USA are waiting her arrival!
June 2, 2009 at 1:18 am
imp says
Just hope she will recover very soon and get on with her dream. Thanks for being kind to Susan, Piers.
June 4, 2009 at 1:11 pm
Dee says
Can’t believe the Press think SuBo borrowing a mobile to call her cat Pebbles is abnormal behaviour!
I called my dogs back in UK all the time whilst I was working in New York. It’s reassuring to a pet to her your voice. Well done Sue for being a caring owner.
June 5, 2009 at 2:56 am
Elizabeth Gurr says
Piers, thank you for your reassurances about Susan. Our fansite for Susan adore her and you should visit it some time. It is the best fansite and we are totally dedicated. We have rejoiced and cried bitter tears within this past month and week, but we can hardly wait to get Susan’s album w h e n she is ready.
Thank you to the BGT for helping her. I have written some of the newspapers who hurt Susan. I told them we need the names of those who taunted her. Give those names to her fans, and let the journalists feel the heat all over the world. I am serious! When are they going to feel the consequences they hand out so cruelly?
I think the more you feed Susan the positive truth and move away from the sad words to the love of her fans the better. Please guess the site I mean or ask me.
Elizabeth Gurr
June 5, 2009 at 2:58 am
Elizabeth Gurr says
WE LOVE SUSAN BOYLE & WE BELIEVE IN HER TALENT. WE LOVE HER PERSONALITY & WHO SHE IS. DON’T CHANGE A THING. 200 MILLION KNOW WHAT THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT.
WE WANT SUSAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 15, 2009 at 8:22 pm
Patricia says
Thank you for defending Susan. Keep up the fight against the mean spirited backlash! Susan’s fans are depending on you to take care of ” Our Susan” ! Up With Susan, Down With The Ugly, Mean ,Lying Tabloids!
YEAH SUSAN, WE LOVE YOU !
July 17, 2009 at 3:54 am
Linda says
Piers,
I know you are in the states at the moment but you have to know something. Just a brief update is all I’m asking.
I listen to her everyday. I never tire of her voice. I’m just tired of having the computer speaker stuck to my ear. I know she is in the process of her first CD. Can’t wait! My kids think I’ve gone mad. They never seen me so pre occupied with any celebrity. I do worry a lot about her. (And she’s got me thinking of you.) Crazy stuff.
But how is she doing? You must speak to her frequently. I know you didn’t leave her high and dry. You still owe her a date. She must be very patient. Waiting for you to get back from the States. It would be driving me crazy.
July 28, 2010 at 8:27 pm
James says
You are a good person. Despite your portrayal of your “rants” as mean, they are only mean to people who deserve it. And that isn’t mean.
Thanks.