A family has been surprised by the revelation that a woman’s newborn baby was actually a doll. Kira Cousins, residing in Airdrie, Scotland, is facing accusations of wearing a fake pregnancy bump, staging a birth, and sharing images of a Reborn baby doll named Bonnie-Leigh Joyce. The 22-year-old claimed to have given birth to her “daughter” earlier this month, stating a weight of 5lbs 4oz.
Cousins posted baby scans, a gender reveal event, and a video showing the “baby” kicking her belly. She also shared pictures of baby clothes and expensive gifts, including a £1,000 pram and car seat. Allegedly, she fabricated details about hospital visits and health issues, including a supposed heart defect detected during ante-natal tests. However, her deception was exposed when her mother discovered the doll in her room.
Following the discovery, screenshots of messages purportedly sent by Cousins indicated that she informed the man believed to be the baby’s father that the infant had passed away. When contacted by the Daily Record, Cousins declined to provide a comment. In a statement posted on TikTok, she explained the situation, revealing that her family was unaware of the deception, as well as the alleged father and his family.
A friend, Neave McRobert, raised suspicions when she noticed that the “baby” never cried and Cousins prevented anyone from touching it, citing recent hospital check-ups. Neave mentioned that all pictures and videos of Bonnie-Leigh were deleted by Cousins, and the baby’s father confirmed that it was a doll. The friend expressed disbelief at the elaborate lies, including claims of a gender reveal and health issues with the doll.
Reborn dolls, like the one used by Cousins, can be purchased for varying prices between £30 and £2,000. Another friend of Cousins, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed doubts about the authenticity of the pregnancy, referring to Cousins as a habitual liar. The friend recalled instances where Cousins’ fake pregnancy bump appeared unnatural and how suspicions were dismissed to avoid backlash.
Overall, the incident has caused shock and disbelief among those close to Cousins, with many reflecting on the elaborate deception that had unfolded.