OK! (UK)

‘NOW THAT SEX IS EASIER TO GET, LOVE IS HARDER TO FIND’

Instagram sensation La, La, La, Let me explain on modern day dating and why she stays anonymous

- Words: josie copson photos: getty

In less than four years, La, La, La, Let Me Explain has amassed a cult Instagram following of over 130k, which includes Winnie Harlow, Laverne Cox and Katie Piper.

The sex, dating and relationsh­ip educator has become a voice of reason, with posts on topics such as spotting the signs of abusive behaviour and calling out rape culture. She also has fun with her followers by sharing stories of “The Ick”, where a person suddenly seems unattracti­ve for silly reasons.

Her Instagram is a no-nonsense one-stop shop for spreading important messages – and she’s now dispensing her wisdom in her new weekly column on ok.co.uk.

Here, the star – who remains anonymous – tells us how she swapped a career in social work for social media, and reveals the celebs who’ve slid into her DMS...

When did you first begin your Instagram page?

In 2017, and within a year it was my full-time job. As a social worker for 15 years, I focused on domestic violence and abusive relationsh­ips. But in my personal life, I was chasing emotionall­y abusive men. I had an epiphany. I never planned to make social media my job, but I felt like people needed the informatio­n. I was excited when Katie Piper messaged me about my podcast!

Why the anonymity?

Initially, I was still a social worker so it was essential. Now, I feel more comfortabl­e as I don’t want fame. More people can relate to me if they don’t know what I look like. Also my son is starting secondary school. I don’t want his friends saying, “Your mum was talking about herpes.” I go to events, but I don’t allow photos. I’m not Banksy level, though [laughs].

How many people in your life know the truth?

Only close people. When I left my job, I couldn’t tell colleagues my plans. When I was on dating apps (I’ve come off them now as they’re trash), I felt like I was lying to the men on there.

What kind of response have you had from fans?

I receive hundreds of DMS every day. They open up to me, so I feel it’s important to interact properly. I don’t promise to reply to every DM, but I do my best.

What subjects do your followers engage with the most?

When I call out trends on social media. I’m worried about Tiktok, as it’s unregulate­d and a breeding ground for overly sexualised

content. There’s a general trend of content normalisin­g violence in sex. Currently it “doesn’t go against community guidelines”. I want the government to ensure there’s penalisati­on if social media companies don’t do more to stop it.

Do you experience the negative sides of social media?

There’s always backlash. I tell any would-be influencer, “Make sure you can handle the horrible comments.” I’ve stood firm with my beliefs, but I’ve also been willing to learn. follow la, la, la, let me explain on instagram at @lalalaletm­eexplain and read her exclusive ok! vip column, available at ok.co.uk on mondays

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Katie Piper is a fan of La, La, La, Let Me Explain
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