Entertainment
Mel B says she would ‘dread’ going home amid Stephen Belafonte abuse claims
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Mel B has opened up about her relationship with ex-husband Stephen Belafonte, stating she would ‘dread’ going home to him.
The Spice Girl has accused the producer of ‘emotional and physical abuse’ throughout their 10-year marriage.
He has fiercely denied all allegations against him.
Taking over Steph’s Packed Lunch as part of Channel 4’s Black To Front series, the Wannabe singer led a discussion on coercive control with guest Paulette, who opened up about her own experiences.
Paulette suffered abuse at the hands of her ex-boyfriend for three years, explaining that it started with coercive control, and built up ‘gradually’.
‘I was with my partner for nearly 10 years,’ Mel shared in their chat. ‘[Leaving] was the most difficult thing to think about when you’re actually in it.
Mel took over the reigns of Steph’s Packed Lunch today (Picture: Channel 4)
‘Leaving is off the cards.’
‘I think when you’re in an abusive relationship, you’re almost living two separate lives,’ she continued.
‘The life behind closed doors which you’re very ashamed to talk about, or even tell anybody about it. And then your life outside.
‘So, for me, I would be sitting there doing America’s Got Talent, all glammed up, dreading to go home. Because when I went home, I didn’t know… Well I did know what to expect. It was terrifying for me.
Mel alleges she was abused by ex-husband Stephen Belefonte, something he strenuously denies (Picture: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
‘This is why it’s so important that we talk about this. Because you can get help and you can get out.’
Ending the segment, she added: ‘I cannot stress to anyone watching right now, help is there. It took me 10 years to get out, so do it now before it’s too late. You are not alone.
Fans watching on from home were full of praise for the discussion, and took to Twitter to discuss the scenes.
‘Well done Mel B for shining a light on coercive control,’ one wrote.
‘So many people don’t understand the different levels of domestic abuse #MelBsPackedLunch #BlackToFront.’
‘Very interesting discussion on abuse on #melbspackedlunch #BlackToFront #Channel4,’ another agreed.
‘So important that @OfficialMelB hosting #stephspackedlunch /#melbspackedlunch is talking about #DomesticAbuse,’ a follower said.
‘It’s not only physical abuse but controlling behaviour. Sometimes women don’t realise that it’s happening to them. #BlackToFront.’
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‘Paulette’s story is really important,’ a viewer added. ‘If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, get help. #MelBsPackedLunch #C4BlackAndProud.’
Mel took over Packed Lunch from Steph McGovern as part of Channel 4’s Black To Front series, with AJ Odudu and Mo Gilligan fronting a one-off special of The Big Breakfast earlier this morning.
Journalist and broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald, 82, will also be hosting long-running game show Countdown, in place of Ann Robinson.
Mel B’s Packed Lunch is available to stream on catch up, on All4.
Domestic abuse helpline
If you are in immediate danger call 999. If you cannot talk, dial 55 and the operator will respond.
For emotional support, you can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. Alternatively, for practical and emotional support, please contact Women’s Aid Live Chat 10am – 6pm seven days a week.
For free and confidential advice and support for women in London affected by abuse, you can call Solace on 0808 802 5565 or email advice@solacewomensaid.org.
Male victims of domestic abuse can call 01823 334244 to speak to ManKind, an initiative available for male victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence across the UK as well as their friends, family, neighbours, work colleagues and employers.
Alternatively, the Men’s Advice Line can be reached at 0808 8010327, or emailed at info@mensadviceline.org.uk.
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