Debby Ryan, star of Disney Channel’s Jessie, was arrested after being pulled over for a suspected DUI. According to TMZ, Ryan was given a standard sobriety test on site after colliding with another car on April 4.
Authorities decided to bump Ryan’s charges down from a felony to a misdemeanor after determining the other driver only suffered minor injuries. Ryan blew a .11 (legal limit is .08). The Jessie star is currently out on $100k bail, but has been charged with two (2) criminal offenses: a DUI and having a blood alcohol content above the legal limit.
Ryan apologised to her fans via Twitter:
“Over the last few days I have had the chance to think about my actions, and I wish I had used better judgment. I recognize that I am a role model and have always worked hard to set a good example for my millions of fans. I am so sorry to disappoint everyone.”
Over the last few days I have had the chance to think about my actions, and I wish I had used better … https://t.co/HTOd3Jv6Hk
— debby ryan (@DebbyRyan) April 13, 2016
While some of her fans are quick to forgive their favourite on-screen nanny, saying she “made a mistake and she feels awful about it,” others are not so tolerant of her actions.
One fan said, “I’m not gonna condone anything you did like these sheep. People die REGULARLY from drinking and driving. Pull your shit together.”
This comment alone sparked a heated tweet battle between two users, ending with Ryan’s supporter claiming the actress is “a 23 year old who is still learning and wasn’t thinking.”
Other users have said, “You’re a human being, you make mistakes & you’re learning from them. we love you so much you’re not less a role model than before.”
Not all of the comments come from Ryan’s fans, but it is clear not everyone is quick to shame her. Despite everything, Ryan realises that she is a role model, and as such should not be let off with a simple slap on the wrist.
Her reps have refused further comment.
Debby Ryan has starred in The Suite Life on Deck before being picked up as the headliner for Jessie. She now also has a recurring role on NBC’s Mysteries of Laura.
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