Monday, September 21, 2026 - Mandi Vakili, the influencer and sister of Love Island star Anna Vakili, has faced fierce backlash after saying she feels uncomfortable when she sees women breastfeeding in public.
The comments were made on the sisters’ podcast, Sisters in the City, and a clip quickly spread online, prompting strong reactions from viewers. Mandi later apologised and acknowledged that she had not understood how much stigma and judgement breastfeeding mothers already face.
Mandi clarified that she was not saying women should be prevented from breastfeeding wherever they choose, but said she personally feels awkward when a woman breastfeeds with her breast fully exposed in a public setting. She also asked people to direct their criticism at her rather than Anna.
The controversy intensified after Mandi said she had received severe online abuse, including alleged death threats, while arguing that the discussion could have been handled more constructively.
The row has reignited debate over public breastfeeding, personal discomfort and the responsibility that comes with having a large online platform. Mandi has since said she needs to educate herself and do better, while maintaining that the level of abuse directed at her was unacceptable.
The Equality Act 2010 also protects breastfeeding mothers from discrimination in public places in England and Wales, adding a legal dimension to an already heated public conversation.
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