On 12 October, shortly after news of Jessie J and Channing Tatum’s relationship broke, Stylist publicly reprimanded social media trolls for their endless (and extremely problematic) comparison of J to Tatum’s ex-wife, Jenna Dewan.

“While they may seem harmless, these comments give society permission to enforce its more sexist narratives,” the article states. “[Such as this idea] that women are constantly competing with one another, for example. That we, and only we, should be held accountable for a man’s crimes (again, I urge you to look at the overriding narrative of the ‘Other Woman’: why is she entirely to blame for the man’s transgressions?). That we should bow down to society’s impossible beauty and sartorial standards.

“That it’s absolutely OK – normal, even – to judge a woman solely on her appearance.

While the article was received positively by Stylist readers, though, the comparisons have sadly continued – so much so that J has now been forced to post a reaction to the issue on her own social media accounts.

Taking to Instagram, the singer posted: “Who does this story inspire? Is picking who is prettier and then continuing to say why a good activity for women to participate in? No.”

J went on to explain that she was “disappointed and embarrassed that my name is even involved… because I know the kind of impact it has on younger girls reading it.”

“So,” continued J, “I ask the media again to realise the power they have in changing the world. How you can help the younger generations grow up to be nicer to themselves, and each other. To change, in a positive way, what young women read and see. [Because this will] impact their personal view on themselves regarding beauty, and how they see those around them.

“We are all unique.”

J added: “I am a woman that supports ALL women. I am a woman that loves ALL women and will not stand quietly when the media is teaching young girls to constantly compare one another. Or to pick who they think is prettier.”

It wasn’t long before Dewan had spotted J’s post in her newsfeed – and the actress was quick to respond.

“Amen Jessie! Yes!!!!” she wrote, in a note which she shared on Twitter. “No need for negativity. Let’s live in a world where we support each other and lift each other up. Like I said before, positive vibes all the way. [I have] nothing but respect [for Jessie].”

Captioning her post, Dewan tweeted: “Beautiful message @JessieJ #womensupportwomen #respect.”

Hear bloody hear. 

We can only hope that tabloids and trolls will see Dewan and J’s posts and learn from their good example. After all, the year is 2018: surely it’s high time we stop pitting women against each other?

Image: Getty