Casey Anthony, one of the most controversial figures in American history, is making a bold return to the public eye—this time, as a self-proclaimed “legal advocate” focused on women’s rights and the LGBTQ community. The woman infamous for the murder trial surrounding the 2008 death of her daughter, Caylee, has decided to take a new direction in her life, leveraging her social media platform to fight for the causes she believes in, and to challenge President Donald Trump’s agenda.
In a TikTok video posted on Saturday, Anthony introduced her new venture, which she says is meant to reframe her public persona. “This is my first of probably many recordings on a series I am starting,” she said. In the video, she explained that she felt compelled to “advocate for myself” and for her deceased daughter.
“I am a legal advocate. I am a researcher. I have been in the legal field since 2011, and in this capacity, I feel that it’s necessary if I’m going to continue to operate appropriately as a legal advocate that I start to advocate for myself and also advocate for my daughter,” she said, carefully explaining that her video series is not a reaction to any statements from her family. She insisted, “This is not about them. This is not in response to anything that they have said or done.” Instead, Anthony’s mission is focused on helping those she feels are marginalized or voiceless.
For many, the name “Casey Anthony” is forever tied to the highly publicized and divisive trial in which she was acquitted of murdering her 2-year-old daughter, Caylee, in 2011. The trial captivated the nation, with an estimated 40 million Americans watching at least part of the proceedings. She was condemned for frequenting night clubs and going dancing and drinking while her daughter was missing. The stunning “not guilty” verdict sparked outrage, and Anthony’s life since then has been marked by intense media scrutiny.
In her TikTok video, she explained that she views her newfound platform as a “blessing” and wants to use her influence to stand up for others who might be fighting battles of their own.
A friend close to Anthony told The New York Post that her decision to speak out was largely driven by her strong disapproval of President Donald Trump. “She’s appalled,” the friend said. “She wants to speak up for many people who don’t have a voice. She’s got a lot of friends in the gay community, and she wants to use their influence to help.”
“She wants to fight Trump. She figures she can either be angry, or she can be a Trump-hating advocate for others,” the friend stated. “She’ll use her influence to resist.”
In an attempt to prevent negative interactions, she disabled comments on her TikTok videos, stating that this is her “space” to share her perspective.
Despite her attempt at rebranding, Anthony’s return to the public sphere is sure to raise eyebrows. Her past is impossible to ignore, and the public’s perception of her may be difficult to change.
READ NEXT: Washington, DC Service Industry Vows To ‘Resist’ Incoming Administration
