Big Ed 90 Day Fiance: Reddit's Take On The Controversial Star
Hey guys! Ever wondered what Reddit really thinks about Big Ed from 90 Day Fiance? Buckle up, because we're diving deep into the Redditverse to uncover all the juicy details, opinions, and controversies surrounding this iconic (and often polarizing) figure. Get ready for a wild ride through the world of reality TV gossip and internet sleuthing!
Who is Big Ed?
Before we plunge into the depths of Reddit's opinions, let's do a quick recap on who Big Ed actually is. Edward Allen Brown, famously known as "Big Ed," first appeared on 90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days. He quickly became a household name – for better or worse – due to his relationship with Rosemarie Vega, a young woman from the Philippines. The couple's journey was filled with cultural clashes, awkward moments, and a whole lot of cringe-worthy scenes that had viewers glued to their screens. From his initial scenes, Ed's behavior raised eyebrows, sparking countless debates and discussions across social media platforms, especially on Reddit.
Ed's physical appearance also contributed to his notoriety. He has a condition called Klippel-Feil syndrome, which affects bone fusion in the neck. This condition, coupled with his sometimes awkward demeanor, made him an easy target for both sympathy and criticism. His relationship with Rose was further complicated by significant age and cultural differences, leading to numerous conflicts that played out on television. Despite the controversies, Big Ed managed to stay in the limelight, appearing in subsequent 90 Day Fiance spin-offs and becoming a recurring figure in the franchise. But what does Reddit really think about him?
Reddit's Initial Reaction to Big Ed
When Big Ed first appeared on 90 Day Fiance, Reddit exploded with reactions. The dominant sentiment? A mix of shock, disbelief, and utter fascination. Users on subreddits like r/90DayFiance and r/TLC were quick to dissect every single scene, scrutinizing Ed's behavior and intentions. His relationship with Rose became a central topic of discussion, with many Redditors expressing concerns about the power dynamics at play. The age gap, Ed's attempts to change Rose, and his often insensitive comments were all major points of contention.
One of the earliest criticisms revolved around Ed's treatment of Rose. Redditors pointed out instances where he seemed more concerned with his own image and comfort than with Rose's feelings. Remember the infamous mayonnaise hair treatment scene? Or when he asked Rose to take an STD test but hadn't taken one himself? These moments were like fuel to the fire, igniting heated debates and solidifying Ed's reputation as a controversial figure. Many users accused him of being manipulative and disrespectful, arguing that he was taking advantage of Rose's vulnerability. On the other hand, some Redditors offered a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that Ed's behavior might stem from his own insecurities and naivety. However, these voices were often drowned out by the overwhelming criticism.
Key Controversies and Reddit's Deep Dive
Alright, let’s get into the real tea. Over the seasons, several controversies have cemented Big Ed's place in 90 Day Fiance infamy, and Reddit has been there every step of the way to dissect each one. Here are some of the most talked-about moments:
The Mayonnaise Hair Treatment
Ah, yes, the infamous mayonnaise hair treatment. This scene alone could have its own dedicated subreddit. Ed suggested Rose use mayonnaise to improve her hair, a suggestion that many viewers found bizarre and culturally insensitive. Redditors were quick to point out the awkwardness and inappropriateness of the situation, with many questioning why Ed thought this was a good idea in the first place. The general consensus on Reddit? Major cringe.
The STD Test Request
Another major point of contention was when Ed asked Rose to take an STD test but admitted he hadn't taken one himself. This sparked outrage on Reddit, with many users accusing Ed of hypocrisy and a lack of respect for Rose's health. The double standard was glaring, and Redditors didn't hold back in expressing their disgust. This incident further fueled the perception of Ed as someone who prioritized his own needs and desires above those of his partner. The comments sections were filled with angry reactions and accusations of selfish behavior.
The Toothbrush Incident
Remember when Ed gave Rose a toothbrush and toothpaste, implying that her breath wasn't up to par? Yeah, that didn't go down well either. Redditors saw this as another example of Ed's insensitivity and his tendency to try to change Rose to fit his own standards. The toothbrush incident was viewed as a condescending gesture, highlighting the power imbalance in their relationship. Many Redditors felt that Ed was projecting his own insecurities onto Rose, further solidifying his image as a problematic figure.
Allegations of Exploitation
Beyond specific incidents, many Redditors have accused Big Ed of exploiting Rose for fame and attention. Some argue that he was aware of the power dynamics in their relationship and used them to his advantage, knowing that their interactions would generate buzz and keep him in the spotlight. These allegations have led to broader discussions about the ethics of reality TV and the potential for exploitation within the 90 Day Fiance franchise. The subreddit r/90DayFiance has become a hub for these discussions, with users sharing their perspectives and analyzing Ed's behavior from various angles.
Reddit's Evolving Opinion of Big Ed
Over time, Reddit's opinion of Big Ed has continued to evolve. While the initial reaction was largely negative, some Redditors have started to view him with a mix of amusement and pity. They argue that Ed's awkwardness and lack of self-awareness make him a sort of accidental comedian, providing endless entertainment value. However, this more lenient perspective is often met with resistance from those who continue to view Ed as problematic and exploitative.
Despite the occasional defense, the prevailing sentiment on Reddit remains critical. Many Redditors believe that Ed's behavior sets a bad example and perpetuates harmful stereotypes. They argue that his continued presence on 90 Day Fiance sends the wrong message, normalizing disrespectful and manipulative behavior in relationships. This ongoing debate reflects the complex and often contradictory nature of reality TV fandom, where viewers can simultaneously enjoy the drama while also criticizing the problematic aspects of the show.
Big Ed's Response to the Criticism
Big Ed is no stranger to the criticism he receives, both on and off Reddit. He has addressed the controversies on several occasions, often attempting to defend his actions or offer explanations for his behavior. However, his responses have often been met with skepticism, with many Redditors accusing him of being disingenuous or simply doubling down on his problematic behavior.
In some interviews, Ed has claimed that his actions were taken out of context or misrepresented by the show's editing. He has also suggested that he was simply being himself and that viewers are unfairly judging him based on a limited portrayal of his personality. However, these defenses have done little to sway the opinions of many Redditors, who argue that Ed is ultimately responsible for his own actions and words. The debate over Ed's accountability continues to rage on, with no clear consensus in sight.
The Future of Big Ed in the 90 Day Fiance Universe
Love him or hate him, Big Ed remains a prominent figure in the 90 Day Fiance universe. His appearances on various spin-offs continue to generate buzz and controversy, ensuring that he stays in the spotlight. But what does the future hold for Big Ed? Will he continue to be a recurring character on the show, or will viewers eventually tire of his antics? Only time will tell.
For now, Reddit will undoubtedly continue to dissect Ed's every move, offering their unfiltered opinions and fueling the ongoing debate about his role in the franchise. Whether you see him as a harmless source of entertainment or a problematic figure who perpetuates harmful stereotypes, there's no denying that Big Ed has left an indelible mark on the world of reality TV. And as long as he's around, Reddit will be there to document every moment.
So, what do you think about Big Ed? Join the conversation on Reddit and let your voice be heard! Who knows, maybe your comment will be the next big topic of discussion in the 90 Day Fiance universe!