Christmas has come early for one beleaguered boy.
The internet went into a storm over a touching video of a boy recounting his experiences of being bullied at school.
In the video published Friday, 11-year-old Keaton Jones told his mother he was afraid to go to lunch because of the abuse he suffers at the hands of school bullies.
This is Keaton Jones, he lives in Knoxville and he has a little something to say about bullying.https://t.co/coyQxFp33V
— OutKick Bets (@OutKickBets) December 9, 2017
His schoolmates call him ugly, tell him he has no friends, and pour food on him Jones said.
“Just out of curiosity, why do they bully?” Jones asked. “What’s the point of it? Why do they find joy in taking innocent people and find a way to be mean to them? It’s not OK.”
He went on to argue:
“People that are different don’t need to be criticized about it. It’s not their fault. If you are made fun of, just don’t let it bother you.”
The video went viral and was quickly addressed by a number of celebrities — including President Trump’s oldest son.
First, Ultimate Fighting Championship President Dana White offered to bring Jones over to Las Vegas to see UFC headquarters in person.
Meet Keaton Jones a very smart little boy who is being bullied at school. This video is heartbreaking!! I want to bring Keaton to Vegas and hang out at UFC Headquarters. If anyone knows how i can reach the family please let me know. Thank u everyone pic.twitter.com/BR8c4ldDFc
— Dana White (@danawhite) December 10, 2017
Donald Trump, Jr. immediately stepped in to build upon the offer, offering to host Jones and his family at his home.
Other celebrities likewise made generous offers in the hopes of brightening his day.
Actor Chris Evans said he would like to bring Jones and his mom to the premier of the new “Avengers” film in Los Angeles next year.
Stay strong, Keaton. Don’t let them make you turn cold. I promise it gets better. While those punks at your school are deciding what kind of people they want to be in this world, how would you and your mom like to come to the Avengers premiere in LA next year? https://t.co/s1QwCQ3toi
— Chris Evans (@ChrisEvans) December 10, 2017
Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker invited Jones and his family to an upcoming game.
@DonteStallworth @Lakyn_Jones hopefully my video and the tweets that Keaton have been getting brings awareness to bullying and how serious it is in our school system pic.twitter.com/1Dujv3RxA5
— Delanie Walker (@delaniewalker82) December 9, 2017
University of Tennessee quarterback Jarrett Guarantano actually spent the day with Jones.
So I got the chance to spend the day with my new best bud Keaton. It was unbelievable to get to know him and realize that we have a lot in common. This dude is very special and has changed my life forever. Now I have the little brother I always wanted! God bless you my man pic.twitter.com/vMHVtnf2rC
— Jarrett Guarantano✞ (@BroadwayJay2) December 11, 2017
Country music artist Kelsea Ballerini tweeted out support, saying she wants to go to the school and see the bullies apologize.
buddy next time I make it home to Knox I'm going to walk into that lunchroom with you and watch the bullies say they are sorry to you. you don't deserve that. keep your head up and continue to be kind…you will always Come out on top. sending a hug. https://t.co/fZn2hbMPKp
— Kelsea Ballerini (@KelseaBallerini) December 10, 2017
Retired NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. asked Jones to “add me to your long list of friends.”
This is heartbreaking. But the response of support for him is a beautiful thing. Add me to your long list of friends Keaton. https://t.co/NKasvdo00u
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) December 10, 2017
Even rapper Snoop Dogg spoke out, inviting Jones to send him a direct message.
“Say lil Man U gotta friend in me for life hit me on dm so we can chop it up love is the only way to beat hate,” he wrote on Instagram.
Other stars, including Enrique Iglesias, Kevin Jonas, and Demi Lovato, encouraged Jones to stay strong.
Heartbreaking to see this. Keaton you’re strong to say these things and care so much for others. #TeamKeaton https://t.co/hgp0ehnn8Y
— Enrique Iglesias (@enriqueiglesias) December 10, 2017
Keaton jones you are a hero. This extremely raw and real moment has brought hope and truth to so many people. Be you and be forever fearless. Never give up. You are loved!
— kevin jonas (@kevinjonas) December 10, 2017
I #StandwithKeaton. Keaton baby, just know you’re not alone. There are so many people who come out of bullying so much stronger and you will be one of them!! God bless you sweetheart. https://t.co/LdCAy2lDHu
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) December 11, 2017
https://twitter.com/seanhannity/status/939934450376495104
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