Melissa Benoist's co-stars support her as she opens up about domestic abuse

28 November 2019

Melissa Benoist's co-stars have spoken out in support of her after she opened up on her experiences with domestic abuse.

Melissa Benoist

The 'Supergirl' actress posted a lengthy video on Wednesday (27.11.19), in which she spoke about her experience with abuse, as she alleged that a former partner - whom she did not name - abused her both physically and emotionally for the duration of their relationship.

And now her friends and co-stars have publicly rushed to support her.

'Riverdale' actress Lili Reinhart wrote: "Please take the time to visit @melissabenoist's IGTV. I am so moved by her bravery and strength in coming forward about her experience. Share this message, talk to your family about this, do not shy away from this subject. (sic)"

Whilst actress Rachel Zegler took to Twitter to share: i adore you, melissa benoist. you are strong and beautiful and loved. (sic)"

Her co-star Jeremy Jordan called her a superhero, adding: "This is what a superhero looks like. Love u so, @melissabenoist. (sic)"

Whilst another co-star, Elizabeth Tulloch, wrote: "Very proud of & impressed by @MelissaBenoist for sharing something so indescribably painful & personal in order to maybe help someone else who's suffering from IPV (Intimate Partner Violence). Pls watch her video/share it (sic)"

In the lengthy video, Melissa admitted she was initially charmed by the man.

She shared: "So I don't normally do things like this but I've written something that I want to share, and I wanted it to stay my words and not have to edit it down for publishing. I'm gonna read it out loud, and I'm quite nervous so bear with me. I am a survivor of domestic violence or IPV (intimate partner violence), which is something I never in my life expected I would say, let alone be broadcasting into the ether.

"He was a magnanimous person, who didn't really give you a choice not to be drawn to him. He could be charming, funny, manipulative, devious. He was younger than me, his maturity obvious. For a period of time, I wasn't interested. I was newly single, gaining my bearing in a change in my life."

Since she shared her story, the hashtag #IStandWithMelissa has been posted all over Twitter as fans and friends alike show their support.