Millionaire beauty brand founder Linda Stinson has issued a public apology after video footage of her launching an expletive-ridden tirade at a hotel guest went viral. Stinson, 42, the founder of Bellamianta cosmetics, was filmed at the Redcastle Hotel in Co. Donegal.
In the widely shared video, Stinson is heard making threats and using derogatory language toward a man who was waiting to collect a pizza. The man reportedly asked Stinson if she had any “proper clothes,” after she questioned his attire. The argument escalated, with Stinson heard saying, “I will kill you… you were the one being cheeky to me.” She also used slurs, including the R-word, referring to the man as a “retard” multiple times.
Social media reactions were divided. Some commenters suggested there might be more context to the altercation than the video captured and criticized the online abuse Stinson subsequently faced. Others argued that there is no justification for the language used, particularly the derogatory terms directed at the man.
Stinson, who founded Bellamianta in 2015, addressed the incident on Instagram, stating, “I want to sincerely apologise for the language I used – it was inappropriate and entirely unacceptable.” She added, “I recognise that my words have caused hurt and distress, and I am deeply sorry. I take full responsibility for my actions and I am committed to learning from this experience.” Comments were disabled on her and the brand’s social media pages following the apology.
Bellamianta is reportedly forecast to make $20 million in sales this year. The brand, known for its alcohol-free formulas, is stocked in major retailers across Ireland and the UK and exports to seven countries. Stinson was a runner-up at the Image PWC Business Women of the Year Awards earlier this year and won the Beauty Industry Award at the 2024 VIP Magazine Power of Women Awards.
