Note: The following article contains discussion of rape and sexual assault allegations, which some readers may find upsetting.

GK Barry has said that she was raped as a teenager, with the influencer sharing her story in an interview with Fabulous Magazine. It comes as she addressed the assault in her upcoming book, It’s Giving Life: A Guide to Surviving and Thriving.

Taking to Instagram on Saturday (29 August), the Loose Women panellist, whose real name is Grace Keeling, promoted the magazine issue which was published today (30 August) and features her as the cover star.

“This is the first time I’ve spoken about a chapter in my book that I’ve never shared publicly before,” she wrote in the caption. “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,” she continued, before explaining that she had shared her story to show other victims that it “wasn’t their fault”.

“I also hope this can help other people not be in the same situation that I was in,” she added, before highlighting the work done from charity Rape Crisis, who she called “amazing” for their “24/7 support”.

The social media influencer received several messages of support in the comment section, with one follower writing: “What a brave brave woman!! God bless ur beauty and ur strength sis we love u.”

“You’re incredible. You’ll help so many people truly ❤️ well done for being so brave angel,” wrote a second user, while a third noted: “Grace… the bravery this must have taken there are no words sufficient enough to describe. Ever so proud of you.”

gk barry

Samir Hussein//Getty Images

GK rose to fame back in 2020 when she started posting videos on TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic. She later began appearing as a guest on podcasts and TV shows, while launching her own podcast Saving Grace.

The social media star became a household name after appearing on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2024, eventually finishing in fifth place. She joined the Loose Women panel the same year, and made her acting debut in Netflix’s Missing You in 2025.

If you’ve been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information from Rape Crisis England and Wales, which works towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct, on its website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.

Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.

Lettermark

Divya is a freelance writer with experience in entertainment and lifestyle news. Described as a “telly addict” since childhood, Divya was able to translate her interests into a BJTC-accredited, Honours degree in Journalism and Media. After working in communications and marketing, Divya joined Digital Spy as a Freelance News Reporter. She has also written for various publications including Metro, Asian World News and TwitCelebGossip; as well as interviews, features and reviews on her own blog. Divya prides herself on her TV, film and showbiz knowledge, always offering (not so) fun facts to her long-suffering friends and family. From soaps to superheroes, Divya is the go-to person for tailored recommendations and up to date information.