Model Ruby Tuesday Matthews calls stars and influencers at Melbourne Cup ‘sickening’
Model Ruby Tuesday Matthews has criticised celebrities and influencers attending the Melbourne Cup, claiming they turned a blind eye to animal cruelty for money.
Confidential
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Stars flocked to Flemington Racecourse for the Melbourne Cup yesterday but not everyone was impressed with the stellar turnout.
Model Ruby Tuesday Matthews refused to attend the annual event and accused celebrities and influencers of turning a blind eye to animal cruelty to make a quick buck.
“A lot of people turn a blind eye to it but everyone knows exactly what’s going on,” Matthews told Confidential.
“I actually just find it a bit sickening that a lot of Instagrammers I know personally, and girlfriend and acquaintances, will complain about the animal cruelty but still go.”
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The single mum said many celebrities are paid to attend racing events but she refuses to jeopardise her values for money.
“Influences make money with the designers that they wear and the promotion of dresses, accessories and products via their channels before the day even starts. I’ve never taken part in any of this,” she said.
“I’ve been invited every year … and every year I’ve declined.”
The Byron Bay model said many stars are guilty of hypocrisy because they claim to be environmentalists on social media but help create plenty of toxic waste at the Cup.
“The amount of waste the whole day creates — from single-use plastic cups and straws, to over-the-top marquee tents that house these influencers,” she said. “Many try and preach sustainability and an eco-friendly lifestyle … but we all have a choice what jobs we take.”
Matthews said her outspoken views have cost her Instagram followers. Her followers dropped from 202,000 to 201,000 within the space of an hour after posting a critical message about Melbourne Cup.
“I lost 1061 [followers], which is fine,” she said.
“At the end of the day you just want people to align with your core beliefs and values.”
Matthews made headlines earlier this year when she admitted to once having a diet of cocaine, cigarettes and coffee to maintain her 54kg frame.
“No I don’t regret [making the confession],” she said.
“I think it’s good to be honest and transparent in a society where there’s so many girls struggling with so many things. You make people feel a little bit less alone … that was in my past, before children. Everyone has their own battles and if I can help one person then that’s great.”