A woman who pretended to have a baby to deceive her family and friends has reportedly left her home to hide from the backlash she faced. Kira Cousins from Airdrie in Scotland received online hate after tricking her loved ones into believing a plastic doll was her newborn baby. She wore a fake pregnancy bump for months and then faked giving birth alone.
The 22-year-old was exposed when her family found out that her supposed daughter, Bonnie-Leigh Joyce, was actually a lifelike Reborn doll hidden in her bedroom. Upset by the situation, people who had bought gifts for the baby were left feeling angry. To avoid the fallout, Kira is said to have left her residence in Airdrie, Lanarkshire.
Concerned individuals are seeking answers as to why Kira orchestrated the elaborate hoax. A former friend mentioned, “We haven’t seen her in days. Everyone is just wanting questions answered, as to why she would do such a thing.” The friend added that Kira’s mother was heartbroken, and the two may not be on speaking terms.
Prior to the fake birth on October 10, Kira shared images of baby scans and videos from a gender reveal party. She even described a detailed birth story, claiming her “daughter” weighed 5lbs 4oz. She posted videos of the “baby” kicking in her stomach, along with pictures of gifts received, including an expensive pram and car seat.
In a later confession, Kira admitted to fabricating the entire pregnancy and birth story. She expressed remorse, acknowledging her wrongdoing and the hurt she caused to those around her. Kira apologized to her friends and family for deceiving them and acknowledged the loss of trust she had caused.
Close friend Neave McRobert revealed suspicions arose when no one heard the “baby” cry in a video. Neave recounted instances where Kira avoided letting anyone touch the doll and even falsely claimed the doll had health issues that required hospital visits.
Screenshots of conversations between Neave and Kira about the fake baby were circulated online. Neave mentioned feeling used and deceived by Kira’s actions, along with others who were also misled by the elaborate ruse.