David Beckham has publicly addressed the topic of children's mistakes and the power of social media during an appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos. This comes just hours after his eldest son, Brooklyn Beckham, posted a lengthy and scathing statement on Instagram, detailing family tensions and a desire not to reconcile.
Awkward Timing at Davos
The former football star found himself in an awkward position, having to attend high-profile forum events shortly after Brooklyn's explosive social media post. During a podcast recording at the venue, Beckham was initially asked if he had any comment for his son, to which he responded by walking off. However, he later opened up during a conversation on CNBC's financial program Squawk Box.
Beckham's Perspective on Social Media
"I have always spoken about social media and the power of social media... For the good and for the bad," Beckham stated. "What kids can access these days, it can be dangerous. But what I have found personally, especially with my kids as well, use it for the right reasons."
He elaborated on using his own platform for philanthropic efforts, particularly with UNICEF, highlighting it as a crucial tool for raising global awareness about children's issues. "I have tried to do the same with my children, to educate them," Beckham added.
On Letting Children Learn from Errors
Beckham emphasised a parenting philosophy that allows room for error. "They make mistakes, but children are allowed to make mistakes. That is how they learn. That is what I try to teach my kids. You sometimes have to let them make those mistakes as well," he explained.
Brooklyn's Detailed Allegations
In contrast, Brooklyn's statement painted a picture of deep family discord. He began by insisting he does not want to reconcile with his family, accusing them of controlling narratives in the press. "I have been silent for years and made every effort to keep these matters private. Unfortunately, my parents and their team have continued to go to the press, leaving me with no choice but to speak for myself and tell the truth about only some of the lies that have been printed," Brooklyn wrote.
Claims of Inauthenticity and Disrespect
He criticised what he described as "performative social media posts, family events and inauthentic relationships" as fixtures of the life he was born into. Brooklyn specifically alleged that his wife, Nicola Peltz Beckham, has been "consistently disrespected" by his family.
"My mum has repeatedly invited women from my past into our lives in ways that were clearly intended to make us both uncomfortable," he claimed.
Birthday Incident Highlights Tensions
Brooklyn recounted a particularly hurtful incident during a trip to London for his father's birthday. He stated that he and Nicola were rejected for a week while waiting in a hotel room, trying to plan quality time with David. "He refused all of our attempts, unless it was at his big birthday party with a hundred guests and cameras at every corner," Brooklyn wrote.
He added that when David finally agreed to see him, it was under the condition that Nicola was not invited. "It was a slap in the face," Brooklyn concluded, underscoring the emotional rift within the high-profile family.
