RHOC’s Kelly Dodd Apologizes for Calling Coronavirus ‘God’s Way of Thinning the Herd’

Stirring up controversy. Real Housewives of Orange County star Kelly Dodd apologized after she was slammed for her Instagram rant about the coronavirus pandemic.

“I want to give a public apology. When I wrote this is ‘God’s way of thinning the herd,’ that’s not what I meant,” the reality star said on her Instagram Story on Tuesday, April 21. “What I meant was, do these pandemics happen because it’s God’s way? I’m not God, I’m not insensitive. I feel bad for all the families who have lost loved ones. And I do think we should all stay home and protect everybody. That’s not what I meant, and I want to apologize to anybody who got offended. I’m sorry.”

In the now-deleted comments, she called the global outbreak “God’s way of thinning the herd. Dodd claimed, “That many [would have] died anyway!!” regardless of the pandemic.

She then went on to suggest that those who might be more susceptible to the disease should take the necessary precautions in an effort to not infect others. “If you are vulnerable or compromised, stay inside. If you don’t protect others by wearing masks and gloves keep your distance and don’t go out if you are ill,” she ranted. “It’s common sense!”

The reality star first sparked controversy when she was spotted flying from New York to California in the throes of the pandemic. Clapping back at the backlash, she wrote, “If it’s dangerous, why are the airlines still flying? You think I want to fly? I had to get back, how is that elitist?” she asked her Twitter followers. “People are so judgmental it’s sick.” She also claimed that the airports are no dirtier than they usually are. “No, it’s not infested with germs there! How is it different? There was no one at the airport did you see my Stories? And no one was on my plane …”

Just one day prior, the beauty shared footage of her getting a COVID-19 test, leaving many outraged as several people who have fallen ill have yet to have access to testing. Of course, fans of the reality star were offended by her comments and by how she advertised her testing on social media.

“@RHOC_KellyDodd COVID-19 is ‘God’s way of thinning the herd?’ F–k you, Kelly. Just lost a big time [fan] of yours,” one user tweeted. “I’m sorry to say that I have lost all the respect I had for @RHOC_KellyDodd after watching her Insta Stories today.  They are incredibly tone-deaf and irresponsible. Damn when I actually was really starting to like her …,” another added. A third chimed in, writing, “Have always been a big fan and follower of @RHOC_KellyDodd. I was surprised to see how fast she received a test for the coronavirus. She has been to NY many times without a mask. My son got sick, has good insurance, but was told not sick enough for testing. Not fair.”

Given the constantly evolving nature of COVID-19, In Touch wants our readers to have access to the most accurate resources. For the most up-to-date coronavirus information, guidance, and support, consult the CDC, WHO, and information from local public health officials. If you’re experiencing coronavirus symptoms, call your primary care provider for medical advice.