Colleen Ballinger reflects on ‘embarrassing’ ukulele response to grooming allegations

Colleen Ballinger says her ukulele response to grooming allegations was “embarrassing” as she reflects on controversy

Colleen Ballinger has addressed her widely criticised ukulele video, describing the musical response to grooming allegations as “embarrassing” and acknowledging that she mishandled the situation.

The creator, known for her character Miranda Sings, spoke about the controversy during an appearance on the Tea Time with Raven and Miranda podcast.

Ballinger became the focus of intense scrutiny in 2023 when former fan Adam McIntyre accused her of grooming, manipulating and bullying underage viewers. Several fans echoed similar allegations, contributing to one of YouTube’s most discussed controversies that year.

During the height of the backlash, Ballinger released a ten-minute video in which she strummed a ukulele and referred to joining a “toxic gossip train” while addressing the accusations indirectly.

The segment was widely mocked by viewers and creators, with many online calling it one of the most criticised responses seen within the platform’s community.

Reflecting on the video two years later, Ballinger expressed regret. “I obviously didn’t handle the situation the way that I should have, and it’s really embarrassing,” she said. “I wish that I could handle it a lot differently than I did.” She confirmed she was specifically referring to the ukulele segment.

“I should have not picked up the ukulele,” she admitted. “I should have listened to what people were saying. I think they do want an apology, and I am sorry.”

She also rejected ongoing suggestions that the song was intended as an apology. “People keep saying it’s an apology song. I didn’t apologise in that thing.”

Ballinger apologised again during the podcast, saying that when she began creating content nearly twenty years ago, she did not understand issues such as power dynamics or parasocial relationships. “I didn’t think about a power dynamic that could have been there,” she said.

McIntyre has already responded in a new video, sharply criticising Ballinger’s remarks and accusing her of continuing to portray herself as a victim. Ballinger has not replied to his latest comments.