TikTok influencers Matt and Abby Howard have officially denied that they left their toddlers unattended in their cabin while on a cruise . On Monday, the high school sweethearts released a video saying that they had one family member watching the kids whenever they went out. According to the couple, they felt the need to "clear the air."
"We take our roles as parents extremely seriously and we love our children more than anything in the entire world, and we're very protective of our kids," said Matt before attempting to clear up the details. "We had someone with our children at all times on this boat. Period."
Matt also added that the rumors surrounding the couple were "completely untrue." At this point, Abby chimes as well.
"I can see where my story did lead to misunderstanding which is why I ended up deleting it several hours after posting it because I could see that it was causing concern and misunderstanding," She said while thanking everyone for being "concerned about the safety and well- being" of the couple's one and two-year-old.
"As their parents, that is our first and foremost main concern ... So, thank you," she said. "But I do want to clarify that we have not, would not, will not ever leave our children unattended. We would never, ever want to put them in harm's way in any way."
According to the couple, Abby's family "tag team" with the couple so they could enjoy a few moments alone to which they said they were "thankful. Since being posted, the video has amassed 6.1 million views. Many viewers were quick to voice their own opinions on the story.
"If someone was in the room, why have monitors on and make that announcement," one skeptical viewer commented. "Just say, we took turns sitting with them."
"Great explanation, I do feel it’s a valuable lesson for you guys that because you have such a big following people will easily misunderstand things," wrote a second person. "I also think it’s lovely you thanked people for caring and being concerned rather than getting on the defense. Perfectly articulated."
"We all make mistakes we are all learning as we go," a third person wrote. "'I'm sorry ... I'm happy I saw this I have a better understanding now."
Some fans were quick to praise the couple for their resolve. "I knew there was more to it," wrote on viewer in all caps.
"I’m so sick of the Matt and Abby slander," one exasperated viewer stated. "People just decided they wanna get you canceled and it’s ridiculous. Love you guys!!"
"I am so sorry this happened," a third person simpered. "People are WAY too quick to hop on the internet with opinions of people they will NEVER personally know. I hope you & your family had an amazing vacation."
The original drama began when Abby posted an Instagram story while the couple dined at the ship's restaurant."We ended up taking them for five nights and it became apparent that they weren't enjoying it and therefore we weren't either," Abby said in a now-deleted Instagram story.
"So, then we switched our dinner time to after their bedtime and FaceTimed the monitors while we ate. And that worked out much better for everyone." In the original post, Abby stated the baby monitors that they had initially brought did not work onboard the ship so they were forced to switch to Facetime.
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