After facing backlash for terminating their pregnancy over Down Syndrome diagnosis, Jesse and Ashley Ridgway are facing fresh criticism. It followed an old video from the YouTuber’s web series resurfacing online. Although the clip was originally uploaded nine years ago, it has started a fresh debate on social media. Many are also questioning the timing of his resurfacing, while others are linking it to the couple’s decision to terminate their unborn fetus over down syndrome diagnosis.
Jesse Ridway’s old video of Down Syndrome portrayal resurfaces on the internet
An old clip from Jesse Ridgway’s long-running online series, The Devil Inside, has surfaced, especially from the episode where Jesse’s character quickly switches between personalities during a dramatic scene. Eventually, toward the end of the video, he plays a character he identifies as having Down Syndrome. Although the scene lasts just a minute, it has drawn new criticism from viewers who felt the portrayal was in line with old stereotypes about people with special needs.
When the clip began to go viral, many social media users connected it to the new controversy involving Jesse and Ashley. The couple had recently decided to terminate Ashley’s pregnancy after finding out that their unborn child had a high chance of developing Down Syndrome. In turn, the new footage quickly became a social media talking point. Some critics also accused Jesse of being insensitive. However, others explained that the clip should be seen in the context of the fictional series.
Jesse Ridgway says his portrayal of Down Syndrome was part of a fictional storyline
After the video went viral, the media tried to contact Jesse for a quote. In turn, Jesse defended the clip. He claimed and explained that the role was a part of a scripted online series. So, there was no attempt to mock the people with Down Syndrome. The YouTuber explained that the scene was about his fictional character, ‘Isaac Kalder,’ who took over his life in the plot. At the same time, the character was forced to shift between identities, which further confused his mind.
Jesse Ridgway claims that Ashley Ridgway’s family abandoned her
Jesse Ridgway recently made headlines after he shared a personal video of Ashley from when she was recovering after the termination procedure. The emotional clip showed Ashley opening a package sent by Jesse’s parents while resting in bed. Alongside, Jesse shared a long note where he claimed that some members of Ashley’s family reacted negatively to their decision to go ahead with the abortion. He also mentioned that they accused him of manipulating and controlling his wife. Jesse alleged that she received messages urging her to leave him. Sharing the incident, he said:
“Her family has been nowhere to be found. Some even go so far as to join the bandwagon and hate PUBLICLY, kicking her while she’s down. She has received text messages from her family accusing me of abuse and that I’m brainwashing her…issuing ultimatums that she needs to LEAVE ME IMMEDIATELY. Audacious s*** that will have your head-spinning because of the delusion and lack of consideration.”
Why did Jesse and Ashley Ridgway’s decision to terminate their pregnancy receive backlash?
Jesse and Ashley Ridgway publicly announced in March 2026 that they were expecting their first child together. But, around their gender reveal, they found out that their unborn child had a high chance of developing Down Syndrome. In turn, the couple announced their decision to terminate the pregnancy after adequate medical testing and consultations. Jesse admitted that it was a heartbreaking decision for them.
However, it has left the internet divided. Some praised the couple for being open about a deeply personal incident, while others disagreed and criticised them. Since then, Jesse has called out the backlash, conspiracy theories and speculations about their pregnancy and decision to terminate it.
Pic credits: Jesse Ridgway/ Instagram, Jesse Ridgway/ YouTube
What do you think about Jesse Ridgway’s old resurafecd video of portraying Down Syndrome?
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