Social media star GK Barry says she was raped when she was 17

Social media star GK Barry has said she was raped when she was 17.

The 27-year-old media personality, whose real name is Grace Keeling, said in a post shared on Saturday that she felt unable to talk about the assault out of fear.

The podcaster said this is the first time she has been able to speak publicly about the assault and hopes it helps others who also felt unable to speak out.

She said: “When I was 17 I was raped and I’ve spent the last 10 years not telling anyone out of fear.

“I have been extremely nervous about speaking about this and for a long time tried to push it to one side and not think about it but I hope by speaking about it it might help others to know they can too, and it wasn’t their fault.

“I also hope this can help other people not be in the same situation that I was in.

“I’ve been speaking with an amazing charity Rape Crisis who I wish I’d known about at the time. They offer 24/7 support and advice if anyone needs it.”

GK Barry rose to fame on TikTok (Ian West/PA)

PA Archive

She rose to fame during the Covid-19 lockdown after posting content on TikTok where she quickly became known for her self-deprecating humour and unfiltered stories.

She has since gone on to launch her own podcast, titled Saving Grace, and became the youngest regular panellist on ITV’s Loose Women.

Keeling also appeared on the ITV reality show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2024.

Rape Crisis runs a 24-hour rape and sexual abuse support line which can be reached in England and Wales on 0808 500 2222, Scotland on 0808 801 0302 and Northern Ireland on 0800 024 6991.