Gayle King has sparked outrage after her controversial questions to kidnapping survivor Elizabeth Smart about her past trauma during an interview on CBS Mornings.
While discussing Smart’s transformation into a bodybuilder, King raised sensitive and intimate topics, including the daily rapes Smart endured during her 2002 abduction at age 14. King asked, “Why didn’t you get pregnant during that time? Do you know why you never got pregnant?”
The awkward exchange shocked viewers and sparked a wave of criticism online, with many accusing King of being insensitive. “Why bring up such traumatic details when the world already knows?” one user posted, calling the line of questioning “rude” and “cold.”
Smart, now 38, calmly responded to the question, clarifying, “Well, rape and loving intimacy are two different things.” She continued, explaining the clear distinction between her abusive past and the loving relationship she shares with her husband, with whom she has three children.
Despite the discomfort of the moment, Smart, who was kidnapped by street preacher Brian David Mitchell and held captive for nine months, shared that she is now happily married with a family. She also spoke about her recent success as a bodybuilder, where she placed first in her category at the Wasatch Warrior competition. 
Elizabeth, who spent years dealing with the trauma of her abduction and abuse, has used her story to advocate for women and children who are victims of sexual violence. In a candid Instagram post, she explained how her journey to becoming a bodybuilder was a form of reclaiming her body and strength. “My body has carried me through every worst day, every hellish experience,” Smart shar ed. “It has nurtured three beautiful children and risen to every challenge.”
However, the interview took an uncomfortable turn when King asked Smart how she managed to trust and build intimacy with her husband after enduring such a traumatic experience. While Smart answered thoughtfully, the line of questioning drew criticism for revisiting painful memories.
Smart was abducted from her home by Mitchell in 2002, and during her captivity, she was subjected to daily abuse. She was rescued after a couple recognized Mitchell and his wife from a America’s Most Wanted episode. Following her recovery, Smart has become an outspoken advocate, sharing her experiences and helping other survivors.
Despite the controversy surrounding King’s interview, Smart remains resolute in her efforts to empower others and celebrate her strength. “I feel liberated because I can be more than just one thing,” she said. “I can be a bodybuilder, I can feel beautiful and sexy, and I can still be an advocate for women and children against sexual violence.”
Source: Daily Mail
