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Élisabeth Rioux recently shared a video on her Instagram page touching on being a single mom to her four-year-old daughter Wolfie and it didn't take much time before it received backlash.
Despite the adorable clips included in the video roundup, some commenters expressed disdain over Rioux's choice of words in the video, which refer to her ex, Bryan McCormick.
At the start of the Instagram post, which features several clips of Wolfie at various ages, Rioux wrote, "Her dad left when she was two months old" over a shot of a newborn Wolfie. "But it never stopped her from being happy," the text continues in the following part of the reel.
Those who have been following Élisabeth Rioux for some time know the swimwear designer and Quebec-based influencer was formerly in a relationship with Bryan McCormick, the father to now four-year-old Wolfie. However, McCormick is not present in Wolfie's life — a decision made following a court battle.
In December 2021, McCormick pleaded guilty to charges of assault, uttering death threats and mischief involving property valued at less than $5,000, all concerning domestic violence. According to Narcity Quebec, McCormick was sentenced to six months in prison and three years of probation along with a psychological follow-up for anger and emotion management.
Given his violent behaviour, Rioux took legal action to ensure her safety and the safety of her daughter.
Still, it seems some people aren't entirely aware of the full story. Several comments below the video, posted to Rioux's Instagram on March 21, 2024, called out the public figure for claiming Wolfie's father "abandoned" her.
"Ironic to say that her father abandoned her when it was you who took him to court and did everything to prevent him from seeing his daughter," one person wrote.
"Yeah let’s clarify. He didn’t leave. You forced him out. Not saying he didn’t do anything wrong initially but you are the one who has now kept your daughter away from her dad for 4 years. Which is shameful," another commenter said.
Others were confused whether McCormick left or if Rioux simply filed for full custody. Rioux replied to the question, confirming that McCormick did, in fact, decide to leave.
While she didn't share much, Rioux did reply to some of the comments, saying that things are "complicated," and that "when you don't know [the full story], you don't talk."
Specific details regarding the split between Rioux and McCormick remain fuzzy. However, Rioux is standing firm on her decision and it's evident Wolfie is one happy little girl.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of domestic violence, refer to these resources available across Quebec. If you need immediate assistance, please call 911 or go to your nearest hospital. Support is available.
