The self-described “prankster” who has become known for physically accosting celebrities on red carpets says what he does is “not sexual assault”.
Vitalii Sediuk told the Victoria Derbyshire programme he disagreed with social media comments that he had sexually assaulted Kim Kardashian and model Gigi Hadid in recent incidents.
During Milan Fashion Week, the Ukrainian crept up behind model Hadid and lifted her off her feet as she left a fashion show.
The 27-year-old also tried to kiss Kim Kardashian’s bottom last week during Paris Fashion Week, but was subdued by her security.
“You’re giving a bad word to sexual assault,” he told Victoria Derbyshire.
Sexual assault is basically rape. Did I rape anyone? No. I disagree. It’s not sexual assault.”
After being challenged that there is a wide spectrum of sexual assault, he denied that his actions fell under that bracket.
‘Girls have the right to fight back’
After pictures emerged of Hadid elbowing him in the face, a debate began on social media about whether his actions were an assault or just a prank.
Hadid wrote in Lena Dunham’s blog, Lenny Letter, that she felt “in danger” during her encounter with Vitalii.
“I had every right to react the way I did. If anything, I want girls to see the video and know that they have the right to fight back, too, if put in a similar situation.
“It sounds [a] cliche to say it, but in the moment, it wasn’t heroic to me. It was just what I had to do. I know people are put in much worse situations every day and don’t have the cameras around that provoke social media support.”
The 21-year-old added: “I just want to use what happened to me to show that it’s everyone’s right, and it can be empowering, to be able to defend yourself.”
Vitalii worked as a reporter for the Ukrainian TV Channel 1+1, but now appears to publish content to his own social media platforms.
At the time of his “prank” on Kim, he explained on Instagram: “I was protesting Kim for using fake butt implants.
“I encourage her and the rest of the Kardashian clan to popularise natural beauty among teenage girls who follow and defend them blindly.”
According to the celebrity website TMZ, Kim is seeking to press charges and get a restraining order against Vitalii.
He grabbed at her legs at the same venue during the 2014 Paris Fashion Week.
“Some pranks are funny, some pranks are less funny. It’s up to you to decide. My intention is never to hurt anyone, never to offend anyone. I’m basically a normal guy.”
Vitalii admitted that he does his “pranks” for “attention” and wants to be like Piers Morgan, the British journalist and television star.
“I’m doing this for attention, and the more attention I receive the bigger platform I can get to express my opinion on certain topics.
“I would be surprised if someone lifted me up from behind as well,” he added.
