Milana Vayntrub, who gained notoriety for playing “Lily Adams” in AT&T commercials, went through upsetting internet abuse.
However, according to a recent New York Times article, Vayntrub received unexpected backing from Stephanie Courtney, better known as “Flo” in Progressive Insurance advertisements.
This unlikely partnership between celebrities in the advertising industry emphasizes the need for compassion and unity in the fight against cyberbullying, providing a touching story amid the increasing cases of online hate.
Unexpected Assistance During Cyberbullying
Stephanie Courtney, who plays “Flo” in Progressive advertisements, got in touch with Milana Vayntrub when the harassment on the internet was at its worst.
Vayntrub thanked Courtney for her sympathetic reply, stating that she felt less alone because of the help she offered her.
Milana didn’t feel alone as she was supported by a friend throughout the cyberbullying incident.
Milana talked her heart out on Instagram
In an exposed Instagram livestream in August 2020, Vayntrub expressed her anguish over photoshopped images that were turned into offensive memes churning a bad response from the public.
She was very open about the emotional toll, thinking back on the effects of remarks she had read online that had badly affected her and brought up painful memories, especially those of being sexually assaulted.
Milana’s return to AT&T
Vayntrub made a comeback in 2020, starring in new advertisements that highlighted remote work and iPhone-based video conferencing utilizing 5G technology. She had previously served as AT&T’s spokesperson from 2013 to 2016.
In 2020, AT&T responded to the harassment with a strong statement that showed its commitment to protecting Vayntrub from offensive remarks and harassment, to stand by her side, and to honor all women.
Combating Online Harassment
AT&T emphasized in their statement that they have a zero-tolerance policy against cyberbullying aimed at Vayntrub and that their fundamental values prioritize respecting all women.
Furthermore, their proactive strategy of blocking or eliminating objectionable remarks on social media posts that featured Vayntrub reflected their objective to stop online harassment and promote a secure online community.
Who is Milana Vayntrub?
American actress, comedian, and activist Milana Aleksandrovna Vayntrub was born on March 8, 1987. She was born in the Soviet Union and shortly after moving to the US, she started a career as a child actress. She gained notoriety for her role as saleswoman Lily Adams in AT&T television ads from 2013 to 2016.
Apart from her advertising roles, she had a recurring part on the NBC drama This Is Us (2016–2017) and was a series regular on the Yahoo! Screen science fiction comedy Other Space (2015).
Since 2018, Vayntrub has also provided the voice of Squirrel Girl in the Marvel Rising series, having been chosen to play the role in the television pilot for New Warriors that was never broadcast.