UPDATE: Michael Costello has returned to his Instagram Story to post a lengthy response to Leona Lewis‘ accusations about him.
In the message posted on Tuesday, June 15, the fashion designer wrote that he had sent the singer an Instagram DM earlier in the day to address her message about him alleging embarrassing her in 2014.
“Given that you have publicly shared your experience with me on Instagram without coming to me privately first, I have no choice but to respond to you here as I tried reaching out to you privately without much luck,” he shared.
Michael wrote that he was “really surprised to hear about your traumatic experience with me,” as he recalled them having a “wonderful time.” He claimed he had left dress options for Leona back then, and that she told him she loved them.
He added that after her team reached out to him in May 2021 for a look to wear on American Idol, Leona herself invited him to personally fit her, and that he recalled them having a pleasant conversation.
“You have never indicated to me how you felt, and you’ve continuously worn me, tagged me and had your team reach out to me to request more dresses… As recent as last month,” the designer continued. “I have lost tons of opportunities, sleepless nights and I’m not in a good mental state of mind. I wish you spoke to me directly instead of Instagram, especially when I am at my most vulnerable moment.”
Michael also wrote, “I pray your intentions are pure, and that you’re not acting recklessly in an attempt to smear me and all the dresses I created for you to save a friend. If you were in my position, I’m sure you would equally be as shocked.”
He concluded the post by letting Leona know he’s available for a “heart-to-heart conversation” whenever she’s ready.
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Leona Lewis is opening up about her experience with Michael Costello.
On Tuesday, June 15, the “Bleeding Love” singer recalled a time when she says the fashion designer “embarrassed” her and made her feel “deeply hurt” when they worked together in 2014. The British star’s accusations come just one day after Michael accused Chrissy Teigen of bullying him that same year.
Although Chrissy has publicly apologized for past resurfaced tweets and a separate bullying allegation in a letter published on Monday, June 14, she hasn’t commented on Michael’s accusations.
Taking to Instagram Stories, Leona discussed her past encounter with the style expert, while also expressing compassion for his mental health struggles after he shared that Chrissy’s alleged bullying led him to have suicidal thoughts.
“I usually don’t speak on subjects like this. But honestly I feel that I have to say something as I’ve dealt with years of insecurity from it,” Leona began her statement. “I don’t condone any kind of bully behavior and I’m sorry for what Michael Costello went through. I wanted to share my experience in 2014.”
