Married at First Sight Australia 2021′s Domenica Calarco has been called out for using a stereotypical and racist accent to mock Asian people in an unearthed video from 2015.
**Trigger Warning: This article describes racial stereotyping that may be distressing to some readers.**
As reported in episode 215 of the So Dramatic! podcast, the footage pulled from Domenica’s YouTube account depicted the TV bride mocking Asian people with a fake, stereotypical accent.
What Did Married at First Sight‘s Domenica Calarco Say In the YouTube Video?
In the 2015 video titled “Christmas Eve Dinner Vlog”, Domenica toured her family’s holiday decorations, including a Santa Clause cut-out purchased from “the Asian store”.
“So this is what Christmas decorations are in my Italian grandmother’s house… alongside The Last Supper,” Domenica said whilst zooming in on a Santa Claus decoration, trying to contain her laughter. “And that cute Santa from the Asian store… five dollar [sic].”
She appeared to be mocking the Asian shopowner who sold her grandmother the product, putting on an accent to say “five dollar”, and extending out the last vowels.
@sodramaticonline ♬ original sound – So Dramatic!
The YouTube channel was launched eight years ago and only has two videos, both of which were still public at the time of writing.
Domenica definitely could have learned and changed after this video was filmed. However, there has been no indication of an apology for the stereotyping she engaged in at the time and the offensive video has not been taken down.
Domenica Spoke Out Against Mocking People’s Voices During Married at First Sight
However, it is worth noting that when Domenica appeared on Married at First Sight in 2021, she became upset when Olivia Frazer attacked her for criticising what her voice sounded like, which sparked the notorious glass smash.
Domenica had replied to Olivia’s criticism of her voice at the time, saying: “That’s just the way I speak! That’s the way I talk! That’s my voice!”
Domenica, who’s parents were both born in Italy, questioned Olivia asking: “So my voice isn’t okay?”
Before going on a rant, saying: “Is she f**king serious? No, no, no, no, no, my entire f*cking life I’ve been told my voice is not good enough!”
Domenica’s impassioned speech evoked sympathy from migrant fans who could relate to being mocked over their accents.
Olivia has never encountered a non-eastern suburbs voice and it shows #mafs #MAFSAU #MAFSAustralia
— femina (@o_hells_bells) March 7, 2022
For those of you who don’t understand why Dom was basically stunned because of Olivia the oppressor’s comment let me break it down for you. Children of migrants, have dealt with been told our voices are not good enough by white people all our lives #MAFSAU
— justhere4 (@indie_vidualist) March 7, 2022
If you or anyone you know is struggling and needs support, call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14, both of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7. You can also speak with someone confidentially at Headspace by calling 1800 650 890 or chat online here. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
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