YouTuber Vlad Ncl was beaten while livestreaming in Dublin as video sparked anti-trans controversy (Image via Getty)
Popular YouTuber Vlad NCL was punched during a live stream in Dublin after a man asked him if he was a boy or a girl. The incident occurred on June 12 and spread quickly across social media, sparking anger, debate and claims that the attack reflects hostility toward people who do not fit traditional gender expectations.
The video also reopened the discussion about the risks content creators face when filming public social experiences and whether prank-style content can sometimes lead to dangerous situations.
How was YouTuber Vlad Ncl punched during a live stream in Dublin while dressed as Natalia?
The viral clip came from an IRL live stream of Vlad NCL, whose real name is Vladimiros Nikola. Vlad, known for his transformation into his female character Natalia, was walking in Dublin city center wearing high heels and women’s clothing when he was approached by a man outside the Cotswolds on Trinity Street.The man first made a flirtatious comment and asked if Vlad wanted to go home with him. Vlad responded with a short reaction. Moments later, the man asked directly whether he was a boy or a girl. Vlad laughed and replied, “I’ll let you guess.”
Almost immediately, the man punched him in the face.The shocked creator stepped back, grabbed his jaw and said, “Oh, fuck, no, no, calm down,” as he continued to play the live stream. Later, Vlad said that the man clearly saw the camera and knew that the interaction had been broadcast live.
He also explained that the encounter was not organized and happened unexpectedly after a positive night.
Who is Vladimiros Nikola and why did the Dublin attack spark controversy online?
Vladimiros Nikola launched his YouTube channel in 2017 and later became known for social experiments involving the character Natalia. Through different makeup, wigs and costumes, he documents how strangers interact with him in public spaces. His videos have attracted more than two million subscribers.After the clip of the attack spread on the Internet, reactions were divided. Many people strongly condemned the attack and said no one should face violence because of their looks or appearance.One user wrote: “So Ireland is transphobic and assaults women for no reason?”Another commented: “The victim, Vlad, is not trans. He is cisgender. It doesn’t matter in terms of the expectation of not being assaulted on a night out.”Some viewers questioned Vlad’s joking manner and said the situation could have been avoided. Others defended it, saying that disagreement with its content does not justify physical violence. Streamer Asmongold was among those who criticized people defending the attacker.As of June 14, Vlad said a police report had been filed and video evidence from the live stream had been provided. No arrest or official update has been announced.
