Ellen Adarna Sparks Online Debate After Criticizing Gender Reveal Parties: Practicality or Insensitivity?

The actress’s candid opinion on parenting trends stirs mixed reactions online—raising questions about societal expectations, financial priorities, and public judgment

Introduction

Ellen Adarna, known for her unfiltered honesty and strong personality, is no stranger to public attention. This time, the spotlight is on her recent comments about gender reveal parties, which she labeled as unnecessary expenses and “extra flair” she personally finds impractical.

Her statement, shared during a casual online Q&A session with followers, quickly went viral. Many praised her practicality and candidness, while others accused her of being dismissive or critical of traditions that bring joy to many expectant parents.

What started as a personal opinion has now become a broader conversation—about modern parenting, social media pressure, financial priorities, and the public’s right to express differing views.

Section 1: What Ellen Adarna Said

During an Instagram Q&A, a fan asked Ellen whether she would consider throwing a gender reveal party if she were expecting again. Without hesitation, Ellen replied:

“No. Waste of money. I don’t like unnecessary kaartehan. That’s just me.”

The term “kaartahan”, a colloquial Filipino word roughly translating to “excessive fuss” or “over-the-top showiness,” was what caught people’s attention. Ellen emphasized that her stance wasn’t meant to offend those who enjoy such events, but simply reflected her personal lifestyle and priorities.

Despite the straightforward tone, the internet quickly responded—with both applause and backlash.

Section 2: Mixed Reactions from Netizens

The comment thread quickly filled with a range of emotions:

✅ Supporters praised Ellen for standing up for financial practicality and not giving in to social pressures or Instagrammable norms.

“Not everyone wants to spend thousands for one afternoon just for content. Respect.”
“Thank you for saying what many of us think but are afraid to admit.”

❌ Critics, however, felt the statement was dismissive or judgmental.

“Calling it kaartahan is insulting to those who find genuine joy in celebrating milestones.”
“Just say it’s not your thing—no need to invalidate other people’s happiness.”

Some argued that gender reveal parties are meaningful to many families, especially those who consider them a once-in-a-lifetime moment to share with loved ones.

Section 3: Understanding Gender Reveal Culture

Gender reveal parties began in the early 2000s and have since become a popular trend across the globe. Typically involving cakes, balloons, or other creative reveals, they celebrate the moment parents find out whether they’re expecting a boy or a girl.

But as the trend grew, so did criticisms:

Environmental concerns about balloons and pyrotechnics
Financial strain on young or low-income families trying to “keep up”
Discussions around gender identity and stereotypes in modern parenting

In this context, Ellen’s comments resonate with a growing segment of people who feel pressured by social media perfectionism.

Section 4: Ellen Adarna—Unfiltered, As Always

Ellen Adarna has built a reputation for being brutally honest, even when her opinions are unpopular. Whether discussing motherhood, marriage, or mental health, she often opts for a no-nonsense tone that sets her apart in an industry built on image management.

While this authenticity has earned her a loyal following, it has also opened her up to criticism.

She’s spoken before about her preference for low-key parenting and her belief that experiences—not extravagant celebrations—are what truly matter. In her words:

“I don’t need fireworks to be a good mom. I just need to be present.”

For many, this is refreshing. For others, it comes across as overly blunt.

Section 5: Financial Sensitivity in a Post-Pandemic World

A significant number of Ellen’s supporters agreed with her comment from a financial standpoint.

With inflation still affecting households globally and cost of living concerns rising, many families are scaling down or skipping celebrations that were once considered “standard.” To these people, Ellen’s comments hit home—not because they dislike fun, but because they’re being more mindful.

“She’s not saying don’t celebrate. She’s saying don’t go broke for it.”
“People should normalize small, meaningful moments. We’re not influencers with brand sponsorships.”

Ellen’s stance reflects a broader cultural shift toward intentional living, where extravagance is no longer equated with happiness.

Section 6: The Role of Social Media in Parenting Trends

There’s no denying the power of social media in shaping modern parenting. From curated baby showers to matching family outfits and elaborate birthday themes, platforms like Instagram and TikTok have transformed what used to be simple family gatherings into full-blown productions.

Many critics of the gender reveal trend argue that some celebrations now prioritize aesthetics over authenticity—with parents spending beyond their means for photos that will disappear into timelines within 24 hours.

This is likely what Ellen meant by “kaartahan”—the pressure to perform.

Section 7: Cultural Traditions vs. Personal Preferences

It’s important to distinguish between judgment and preference. Ellen made it clear that she personally wouldn’t throw a gender reveal party, but also stated it was her own view and not a rule for everyone.

In Filipino culture, celebrations are deeply valued. Whether it’s baptisms, fiestas, or birthdays, events often serve as meaningful expressions of family, unity, and joy. So when a public figure appears to challenge that norm, even unintentionally, it can feel personal to many.

But in truth, Ellen’s statement may simply be an invitation for introspection:

Are we celebrating because it brings us joy?
Or are we doing it to meet an expectation set by others?

Section 8: Celebrities and the Right to Have Opinions

Public figures walk a tightrope. On one hand, they’re expected to use their platforms responsibly. On the other, they’re still human beings entitled to personal opinions—even unpopular ones.

Ellen’s situation is a perfect example of how a harmless personal preference can snowball into a controversy when taken out of context or interpreted without nuance.

It raises the age-old question:
Can celebrities be honest without being accused of attacking others?

Section 9: The Bigger Picture—Freedom to Choose

In the end, what this debate highlights isn’t just the polarizing effect of Ellen Adarna’s words—but the diversity of parenting styles, financial situations, and life values that exist in every society.

Whether you’re someone who loves grand celebrations or prefers quiet milestones, what matters most is authenticity and intention.

It’s okay to throw a gender reveal party.
It’s also okay not to.
It’s okay to spend or to save—what’s not okay is judging others for their choices when those choices harm no one.

Conclusion: Agree or Disagree, Let’s Talk Respectfully

Ellen Adarna’s statement about gender reveal parties might not sit well with everyone—but it has sparked a valuable conversation. In a world where people are increasingly expected to follow trends, it’s refreshing to see someone unapologetically go against the grain.

Whether you agree with her or not, the lesson here is clear: We all parent differently. We all celebrate differently. And that’s okay.

Instead of canceling people for their opinions, perhaps it’s time we learn to coexist with differences—gracefully, respectfully, and openly.

Related Articles for Further Reading

Why Gender Reveal Parties Are Being Rethought Around the World
Ellen Adarna on Parenting, Privacy, and Presence
How Social Media Shapes Modern Filipino Family Traditions
Simple Celebrations, Deep Joy: A Shift in Modern Parenting
The Financial Side of Parenthood: Spending Smart in the Age of Social Pressure

(Search these titles on trusted news and lifestyle sites for more insights.)