Social media fame comes with instant applause and instant judgement. Comedian and mimicry artist Jamie Lever, widely loved for her celebrity impressions and Instagram sketches, recently found herself navigating the harsher side of internet attention. A video in which she mimicked Bigg Boss 19 contestant and social media influencer Tanya Mittal sparked intense online backlash, prompting accusations of body-shaming and insensitivity.
What followed was not a clapback or a defensive rant, but a pause. Jamie has now announced that she is stepping away from social media, citing emotional exhaustion and a need to reset. Her candid note struck a chord, reopening conversations around humour, boundaries, and the emotional toll of online criticism.
Video that sparked the backlash
The controversy began when Jamie shared a video recreating Tanya Mittal’s emotional moment from Bigg Boss 19. The clip intercut Jamie’s exaggerated expressions with visuals of Tanya crying on the show. While some viewers interpreted it as satire, a staple of Jamie’s comedic style, others felt it crossed a line.
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Critics accused the comedian of mocking Tanya’s appearance and emotional vulnerability. Comments poured in quickly, with users calling the video “body-shaming” and “unfunny.” One comment read, “It’s sad that despite being so famous, you are body-shaming someone.” Another added, “Stop making fun of someone’s body and expressions.”
As the clip circulated, the conversation shifted from comedy to intent. Was it harmless mimicry, or did it punch down? The polarised reactions reflected a larger cultural moment where humour is increasingly scrutinised, and creators are expected to navigate ever-evolving lines of sensitivity.
Jamie eventually took the video down, but by then, the backlash had already made its impact.
Jamie Lever’s Response: Choosing Pause Over Noise
On Thursday, Jamie Lever addressed the situation with a heartfelt Instagram note. Instead of defensiveness, her words carried reflection and vulnerability.
“Those who truly know me know how deeply I love my work and how honestly I do it,” she wrote, expressing gratitude for the support she has received over the years. Acknowledging the criticism, she added, “Recent events have made me feel like I’ve lost a small part of myself—this comes from reflection, not anger.”
Jamie clarified that her passion for entertaining remains unchanged. But right now, she needs space. “For now, I’m taking some time to rest and reset. See you next year,” she shared, thanking her followers for their love, prayers, and support.
Her response resonated with many who understand the pressures of constant visibility. In an age where creators are expected to be always on, choosing to step back is not weakness, it’s self-preservation.
Jamie Lever, daughter of legendary comedian Johnny Lever, has long worked to build her own identity. Through mimicry, stand-up, and digital sketches, she has carved a distinct space in India’s comedy landscape. This episode, while difficult, highlights the emotional labour behind public-facing creativity.
Jamie Lever’s decision to take a break from social media is a reminder that behind every viral video is a human being processing real emotions. Comedy thrives on observation and exaggeration, but the digital era demands empathy alongside humour.
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As conversations around online accountability grow louder, Jamie’s pause feels timely. Not as an admission of defeat, but as a conscious choice to protect creative spirit and mental health. When she returns, it will likely be with renewed clarity and perhaps, a deeper understanding of how humour evolves with its audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Jamie Lever announce a break from social media?
She faced backlash over a mimicry video of Tanya Mittal and felt emotionally affected.
What was the controversy about?
A video mimicking Tanya Mittal’s emotional moments was accused of body-shaming.
Did Jamie Lever respond to the criticism?
Yes, she shared a heartfelt note reflecting on the impact and announced a break.
Has Jamie deleted the video?
The video was taken down following the backlash.
When will Jamie Lever return?
She indicated she would be back next year after resting and resetting.
