Choosing a baby name is one of those decisions that feels both magical and monumental. It is deeply personal, occasionally whimsical and, for most families, an entirely private affair. But in the age of social media, even something as innocent as naming your newborn can turn into a public spectacle. That is exactly what happened to 25 year old Sydney influencer Indy Clinton, whose sweet nostalgic choice for her daughter unexpectedly became a lightning rod for online criticism.
When a name sparks a storm
Clinton had fallen in love with the name Bambi, inspired by the gentle fawn from the classic Disney film. For her, it was a warm nod to childhood memories — the kind of name that feels tender, light and full of storybook charm. She believed it was original too. As she later explained, “I was convinced nobody else would choose it.”
What she did not anticipate was another Australian influencer, Molly Mae Hague, announcing her own baby girl’s name — also Bambi — just days earlier. The coincidence triggered a wave of accusations online. Commenters labelled Clinton unoriginal, opportunistic or worse. In a space where opinions flow freely and anonymously, the criticism was swift and relentless.
Yet Clinton stood her ground, insisting her decision had been made months before. It was, in her words, nothing more than unfortunate timing.
The rise of unusual baby names
This clash highlighted a growing cultural trend: the push toward distinctive, almost storybook style names. As Clinton herself noted, unique names often end up becoming trends, which in turn invites scrutiny from the public. When your life is lived partly in front of an audience, even a heartfelt choice can become a target.
But her remark had a hint of defiance: “People criticise everything these days — give them something to talk about.” In an online environment where every detail is dissected, it was a reminder that parents increasingly navigate not just naming traditions but the court of public opinion.
A name with meaning, not just novelty
Despite the backlash, Clinton remains deeply connected to her daughter’s name. She describes little Bambi with obvious affection: her big brown eyes, her long legs, her delicate way of moving. To her mother, she simply embodies the character that inspired her name.
It is a sentiment many parents can relate to — choosing a name not for applause but because it feels right, because it matches the tiny person you now hold in your arms.
Raising Bambi in her own way
On TikTok, where she documents life as a young mother, Clinton also shares her approach to parenting. She advocates for respectful, gentle methods: no physical punishment, no forcing children to hug relatives, no battles over uneaten vegetables. Whether or not viewers agree with her philosophy, it paints a clear picture of the kind of environment she hopes to create — one rooted in respect, autonomy and warmth.
For Clinton, raising Bambi is both an act of love and a conscious choice to let her daughter grow freely, without pressure to fit expectations.
A modern fairy tale — with critics at the gates
The story of little Bambi shows how even the most innocent decisions can become flashpoints in the digital age. It also reminds us that behind every trending topic is a real family, navigating real emotions. Clinton’s choice was made with tenderness, even if the public reaction was harsh.
And while the internet may have strong feelings about baby names, Bambi will grow up cherished — not because of her name, but because of the intention and affection behind it.
