Mexican TV Panel Sparks Outrage With Offensive Remarks About BTS and ARMY

A Mexican entertainment program is facing intense backlash after a panelist made disparaging remarks about BTS and their global fanbase, ARMY, igniting international outrage.

“They’re Nobodies” — Comments That Crossed the Line

The controversy began on the Multimedios Channel 6 celebrity gossip show Chismorreo, which was discussing ticketing issues surrounding BTS’s upcoming Mexico City concerts. While addressing complaints about unclear fees, seat maps, and alleged ticket reselling irregularities, the discussion took an unexpected and offensive turn.

One panelist, Luisa Fernanda, compared the situation to sold-out concerts by other global stars and commented that audiences continue to buy expensive tickets despite feeling “exploited.” Another panelist, Fabián Lavalle, escalated the tone by saying that if he had a 17-year-old daughter, he would “make her do her homework instead of crying over some nobody singer’s concert,” while BTS visuals aired on screen.

Fans Targeted With Classist and Educational Insults

As the segment continued, the remarks grew more inflammatory. Fernanda allegedly claimed that “half of BTS fans probably didn’t even finish elementary school,” directly attacking ARMY’s education level. The show’s host attempted to intervene, pointing out that many young fans genuinely want to see BTS live, but the damage was already done.

Global Backlash From ARMY

Clips from the broadcast quickly spread on YouTube and social media, prompting swift reactions from fans worldwide. Many argued that, regardless of the show’s gossip format, the comments crossed into blatant disrespect and classist stereotyping. In response, fans began sharing posts highlighting ARMY’s diversity, including professionals from fields such as medicine, law, engineering, and academia.

BTS Concerts and Political Attention

Despite the controversy, BTS’s Mexico City concerts remain scheduled for May 7, 9, and 10. The issue has also gained political attention, with reports that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum sent a letter requesting support for additional concert dates, reflecting the group’s immense cultural and economic impact.

Meanwhile, BTS is set to return to the spotlight with a major comeback event. On March 21 at 8 p.m. KST, the group will hold “BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG” at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, unveiling new music from their upcoming album in one of Korea’s most symbolic public spaces.

What began as a discussion about ticketing fairness has now evolved into a broader conversation about respect, fandom culture, and the global influence of BTS an influence that critics, fans argue, can no longer be dismissed.