This year, Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott's children faced a tough reality when they were body-shamed online. Now, Dean is opening up about how it affected their 12-year-old son, Liam, and the heartfelt advice he gave to help him navigate through the negativity. If you're wondering how a parent handles such a sensitive situation, you're about to find out.
Dean McDermott on Navigating Online Criticism
Dean McDermott, the 52-year-old star of Chopped Canada, shared a personal moment on his podcast "Daddy Issues" with Nicky Paris and Adam Hunter. During the episode, he revealed how his son Liam reacted to some harsh comments online. “Liam picked it up,” Dean recounted. “He came to me and said, ‘Dad, am I obese?’”
As any dad would do, Dean reassured his son. “Look, buddy,” he told Liam, “there are some sick people in the world who feel the need to say bad things about others. It’s not about you; it’s about them.” Dean’s response was a powerful reminder that sometimes, the people behind cruel words are the ones struggling the most.
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View this post on InstagramWhose play off beard do you like better?? Mine or @liamaaronmcdermott ?? Go Jets Go!! #canada #nhl @nhljets #bestgameintheworld
Teaching Liam About the Toxic Side of Social Media
Dean didn’t stop there. He wanted Liam to understand why people might behave this way online. “Think about it, son,” he explained. “You have a busy life. You’ve got school, sports, and a whole lot of responsibilities. Do you think you have time to scroll through Instagram, following people, and leave negative comments? Of course not! If you did, you’d find something better to do with your time.”
Dean’s message was clear: These trolls have nothing better to do with their lives. “So think about how sick these people must be to spend their time spreading negativity,” he emphasized. It’s a lesson about empathy and understanding the motivations behind harmful behavior.
Dean and Tori's Growing Family
Dean and Tori Spelling are no strangers to the challenges of raising a large family. Together, they have five children: Liam, Stella, Hattie, Finn, and Beau. Dean also has a 20-year-old son, Jack, from his previous marriage to actress Mary Jo Eustace. With such a big family, it’s no surprise that they’ve encountered their fair share of online scrutiny.
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Back in January 2019, Dean wasn’t shy about calling out trolls who left hurtful comments about his kids. After Tori shared a photo of the family together, one commenter wrote, “Why do you let your kids get so fat?” Dean wasn’t about to let that slide. “I am absolutely horrified and disgusted by the comments being left about my children,” he said at the time. “Body shaming and bullying my children? What’s wrong with you people?!”
View this post on InstagramSo blessed to have been made a mommy 5 times thanks to these gorgeous creatures! I adore you Liam, Stella, Hattie, Finn, and Beau. And, thank you @imdeanmcdermott for creating this magical family with me. And, to my bonus babe @thejackmonty I love you. And, a special love shout out to my mommy @candyspelling I love you! Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers everywhere! Best job and honor in the entire world! #mothersday
Dean defended his family, explaining, “We went from a long day at school to the movie. And I don’t know any child who isn’t disheveled at the end of the day. Not to mention, just before this picture was taken, they were wrestling and running around with all the other kids at the movie.”
Standing Up Against Online Trolls
Dean has made it a point to address online trolls on his podcast. In June 2019, he shared how he’s teaching his children to deal with hurtful comments. “I’m just like, ‘Enough is enough.’ I put my foot down, and I’m trying to teach my kids a more spiritual way of handling criticism,” he explained.
For Dean, social media is meant to bring people together, not tear them apart. “Social media was made to communicate with each other, not to give a voice to people who shouldn’t have one,” he said. “I will always stand up for my children, and I will always stand up for the underdog.”
View this post on InstagramHad an amazing time at the #thelegospacehollywood with my gorgeous family today !!! #thelegomovie2 #family #fun
Dean and Tori are proving that they’re not just great actors—they’re incredible parents. By standing up to online bullies and teaching their kids to do the same, they’re setting a powerful example for families everywhere.
