In response to a viral controversy, Hailey Bieber’s legal team sent a cease-and-desist letter to TikTok creator Julie Theis, demanding the removal of a video that suggested Hailey was enduring abuse in her marriage.
The letter, dated January 13, 2026, marks a significant moment for the Biebers, who have faced public scrutiny for seven years. Hailey’s legal move has raised questions about the boundaries of online commentary.
The Rumors That Sparked the Controversy
TikTok creator Julie Theis initiated the controversy on January 8, 2026, with a video claiming Hailey Bieber was trapped in an abusive and toxic relationship.
Theis described Hailey as enduring emotional labor and codependency, suggesting these patterns were reflective of broader societal issues. The video quickly gained significant traction and went viral, sparking widespread reactions. In response, Hailey’s legal team decided to take action.
The Biebers’ Ongoing Scrutiny
Since their marriage in 2018, Hailey and Justin Bieber have faced ongoing public scrutiny. Early rumors about their relationship being toxic gained momentum over time, especially given Justin’s past struggles with addiction.
Fans and critics have frequently questioned Hailey’s role in the marriage, and despite their high-profile relationship, their personal lives have become the subject of intense online discussions.
From Speculation to Legal Action
Speculation about the Biebers’ marriage has persisted, with some claiming the couple would divorce, while others suggested deeper issues.
The controversy escalated with the release of Theis’s video, which gained widespread attention. In response, Hailey’s legal team took swift action, aiming to differentiate between public opinion and what they deemed as defamatory content.
Legal Action: A Clear Response
The cease-and-desist letter sent to Julie Theis explicitly stated that the Biebers would not tolerate unfounded claims about their personal lives.
The letter accused Theis of fabricating false accusations and demanded the removal of the video. This legal response was not only a statement about controlling their public image but also served as a warning to others who might exploit their personal struggles.
Hailey’s Direct Denial
In an uncommon move, Hailey addressed the rumors directly via Instagram Stories. She firmly denied the claims, stating that she had not reposted any video about her marriage.
Hailey criticized the online world for focusing on negativity instead of meaningful topics. Her swift response reflected her frustration, but also her determination to set the record straight.
Theis Responds
Julie Theis responded by defending her video as an “opinion-based commentary” on relationship dynamics. She rejected the defamation claim, asserting that her video was simply her perspective on Hailey and Justin’s marriage.
Theis’s rebuttal reignited the debate about free speech and the role of influencers in shaping public discourse. This legal action has raised questions about the boundaries of online commentary and accountability.
Rising Tensions Over Free Speech
The Biebers’ legal action highlights the growing trend of celebrities using the courts to push back against online commentary.
Platforms like TikTok amplify unverified claims, and this case represents a key moment in the intersection of defamation law and digital expression.
As more public figures turn to legal routes to protect their reputations, the question of accountability for online critics continues to evolve.
Rumors Continue to Circulate
Despite Hailey’s direct denial and the cease-and-desist letter, rumors about the Biebers’ marriage persist. This is not unusual for celebrities, whose personal lives are often under intense scrutiny.
While the Biebers may have taken legal action to curb falsehoods, the viral nature of online rumors suggests that controlling the narrative remains a constant challenge.
Backlash From Supporters and Critics
The legal action has sparked mixed reactions from fans and critics. Some have supported the Biebers, applauding their decision to stand up for their privacy and reputation. Others view the cease-and-desist as an attempt to silence dissent.
This division highlights the tension between a public figure’s right to protect their image and the public’s right to freely express opinions about their lives.
Fans Split Over the Controversy
Hailey’s supporters have rallied behind her, emphasizing her right to protect her marriage from harmful rumors. However, many others feel uneasy about celebrities using their wealth and influence to silence critics.
Some fans condemn Theis for spreading unverified accusations, while others argue that public figures should expect scrutiny as part of their fame.
Legal Strategy: Protecting Privacy
For the Biebers, this legal action was about more than just shutting down negative commentary. It was a clear attempt to reclaim control over their private lives and protect their family, which now includes their 16-month-old son.
The legal strategy was designed to draw a clear line between opinion and defamation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding their privacy.
Public Reflection on Scrutiny
In a 2025 interview with Vogue, Hailey discussed how she and Justin navigate the pressures of public life. Her reflections on motherhood and mental health offered a more humanizing view of the couple, contrasting sharply with the negative rumors surrounding their marriage.
This interview served as a counter-narrative to the online gossip, reminding fans that they are real people behind the headlines.
The Bigger Legal Picture
Experts suggest that the Biebers’ case could set an important precedent for celebrity defamation lawsuits in the digital age.
As the conflict between free speech and online defamation continues to evolve, the outcome of this case could influence how public figures deal with rumors and accusations in the future.
What’s Next for the Biebers?
As the Biebers continue to face public scrutiny, their legal approach to protecting their family and reputation raises important questions about privacy in the digital era.
Will they continue to pursue legal action to safeguard their personal lives, or will the insatiable appetite for celebrity gossip remain unchanged?
The saga is far from over, and the next chapter will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.
Sources:
“Hailey Bieber Sends Cease and Desist to TikToker Calling Her Marriage to Justin ‘Abusive.’” People, 15 Jan 2026.
“Justin & Hailey Bieber Threaten to Sue Over Videos Calling Their Marriage ‘Abusive.’” Billboard, 15 Jan 2026.
“Hailey Bieber Sends Cease & Desist to TikToker.” TMZ, 13 Jan 2026.
“Hailey and Justin Bieber Send ‘Cease and Desist’ Notice to Creator Over Viral Marriage Video.” The Express Tribune, 14 Jan 2026.