Campaigning for Change
Model Courtney Stodden, known for her early marriage at 16, is actively campaigning for a California bill banning child marriage without exceptions. Her renewed activism gained traction after actor Jason Alexander apologized for a controversial 2012 comedy sketch, filmed when Stodden was 17. This incident highlighted the need for accountability and legislative support to end child marriage in California.
Stodden made headlines in 2011 with her marriage to actor Doug Hutchison at age 16, while he was 51. Their marriage, legal under parental consent, ended in 2020. Since then, Stodden has vocally opposed child marriage practices in the U.S., where it remains legal in 33 states under specific conditions. Her efforts are now aligned with supporting Assembly Bill 1267, aiming to ban marriage for individuals under 18.
Jason Alexander’s Apology
Attention returned to Stodden after reflecting on a 2012 comedy sketch by Funny or Die in which she appeared. Alexander played a character making suggestive remarks, prompting a public apology from him. Alexander expressed regret, stating the sketch was inappropriate and apologizing to Stodden for any distress caused. Stodden acknowledged his apology but emphasized meaningful action, urging Alexander to support the bill AB 1267.
AB 1267: A Step Towards Protection
Stodden is a prominent supporter of AB 1267, backed by Assemblymembers Diane Dixon, Gail Pellerin, Cottie Petrie-Norris, and Sharon Quirk Silva. The bill seeks to enforce an absolute minimum marriage age of 18 in California, removing existing exceptions. As per 2021 U.S. Census data, over 8,000 Californian minors reported marriage within the previous year. The United Nations considers marriage under 18 as forced, due to the inability of children to provide informed consent.
Reflections on Her Past
Following her divorce, Stodden shared insights on her underage marriage, referring to years of grooming and abuse. She expressed both love and anger towards her former husband while highlighting her intent to speak out. Hutchison acknowledged the controversy of their marriage but expressed no regrets, describing it as a powerful journey.
Stodden’s experiences have inspired television projects like I Was a Child Bride, and she has participated in reality TV such as Celebrity Big Brother. Her advocacy continues as AB 1267 progresses in the California Legislature. Stodden remains resolute in her campaign to eliminate child marriage, urging constituents to support the bill.