Controversy Erupts Over Vanessa Feltz Show's Breastfeeding Remarks

The recent episode of Vanessa Feltz's Channel 5 talk show has sparked considerable outrage following comments made by fashion designer Karen Millen regarding breastfeeding. The segment, which aired on June 10, 2025, has led to nearly 2,000 complaints filed with the telecommunications regulator Ofcom, marking a significant public backlash against both the remarks and the show's handling of the issue.

During the segment, Millen was asked whether it is appropriate to breastfeed a three-year-old child. She responded, stating, "There’s no benefit, is there, for a child to be breastfed beyond six months really?" Millen further elaborated that she believed continued breastfeeding could be detrimental to the child’s emotional development, suggesting that it might lead to an unhealthy attachment. Her comments ignited a firestorm of criticism from viewers, many of whom took to social media to express their dismay.

Dr. Emily Roberts, a pediatrician at Great Ormond Street Hospital, commented, "Breastfeeding can provide numerous benefits beyond infancy, including emotional security and nutritional advantages. The NHS advocates for breastfeeding for at least two years, as it offers protective health benefits for both mothers and children. It is crucial for public figures to communicate responsibly on such sensitive topics."

The outcry from the public was immediate and fierce. Many social media users criticized Millen for what they perceived as uninformed and harmful opinions. One user remarked, "Karen Millen is an uneducated t**t with an unwanted opinion. It’s a scientific fact that breastfeeding is beneficial for babies beyond even the age of one."

Following the backlash, Millen issued a statement on social media apologizing for the misunderstanding, asserting, "The question was aimed at a three-year-old being breastfed, and my thoughts on that and my answers reflected that, not the subject of breastfeeding. And as a woman to women, I do respect your choices and I do want to support you." However, this apology failed to quell the discontent, resulting in an additional 130 complaints to Ofcom.

The controversy has highlighted the ongoing public discourse surrounding breastfeeding practices. According to a 2023 report by the World Health Organization, breastfeeding has profound effects on child health, reducing the risk of infections and contributing to healthier growth patterns. The report emphasizes that breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and immunity to infants, which is why health organizations globally recommend continued breastfeeding alongside solid foods until at least two years of age.

As the debate continues, experts urge for a more informed dialogue on parenting practices. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a sociologist at the University of Cambridge, noted, "Public figures must be aware of their influence. Statements made in such a public forum can shape perceptions and attitudes towards health practices. There is a need for responsible communication that reflects scientific understanding."

The episode serves as a pivotal moment in discussions surrounding parenting choices and media responsibility. As the complaints continue to rise, it remains to be seen how Ofcom will respond and whether further regulatory action will be taken against the show. Furthermore, the incident poses significant implications for future discussions on health-related topics within media and public platforms. In a society that increasingly values informed opinion, the need for accurate and respectful discourse is essential to foster understanding and support for varying parental choices.

In conclusion, the fallout from this episode highlights the importance of responsible communication in media, particularly concerning sensitive issues like breastfeeding. As more complaints are lodged and viewers express their dissatisfaction, the broader implications of this controversy will likely influence future discussions about health and parenting in the public sphere.