Jessica Biel questions viral ‘Jessica Tantrum’ trend
The actress warns that the viral trend may confuse and frighten young children
Jessica Biel is weighing in on a viral parenting trend inspired by her name, and she’s not entirely convinced it’s a good idea.
The actress, 44, addressed the so-called “Jessica tantrum” trend in a TikTok video shared April 10, offering a candid and slightly conflicted response to the internet phenomenon. The trend, which has been circulating widely on social media, involves parents suddenly yelling “Jessica” to interrupt and distract toddlers during a meltdown.
While some parents claim the tactic is effective, Biel expressed concern over its potential impact on children.
“I’m not really sure how I feel about this,” she admitted. “I feel like half the kids in these videos look petrified.”
The trend gained traction after Biel previously joked about it online, even reposting clips to her Instagram Stories with a playful “You rang?” caption. But seeing the widespread reaction prompted her to reflect more seriously on the approach.
“I really love if I can come into your household with my name… and help you with your kids’ tantrum,” she said with a laugh.
“But I sort of feel like these kids are terrified. They look terrified and hopeful that Jessica is not gonna show up.”
Biel, who shares two sons with husband Justin Timberlake, added that while she appreciates the humor behind the trend, she doesn’t want children associating fear with the name.
“Please, please, please don’t make your toddler terrified of people named Jessica,” she said. “We’re good people. We’re nice people. We wanna help you — but we don’t wanna scare the s--t out of your kid.”
Despite the trend’s popularity online, Biel revealed it hasn’t exactly worked in her own household. Her children, she joked, were more confused than distracted.
“My kids are like, ‘What? Why are you yelling your own name, you weirdo?’” she shared, laughing.
The actress ultimately said she remains undecided about the trend’s effectiveness, calling it “a toss up” and inviting others to weigh in.
“So yeah, I’m conflicted,” Biel concluded. “I don’t know what to say.”