Trigger Warning: This article discusses alleged abuse and self-harm. If you or someone you know is affected by the following story, you are not alone. To speak to someone, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
The family of Beach Slang frontman James Alex have issued a statement confirming that Alex is “in an inpatient facility after attempting to take his life.”
News of his hospitalisation follows allegations of emotional abuse from Beach Slang’s former manager Charlie Lowe.
In a statement shared to Twitter, Lowe detailed incidents of “constant” abuse. Lowe claims to have been diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) as a repercussion of the way she was treated by Alex.
“I endured constant emotional, psychological & narcissistic abuse from James Alex for years,” Lowe wrote. “I have learned he sells his too-kind-to-be-true persona to hide that he is truly the most selfish horrible person I will ever meet. I was diagnosed with C-PTSD from how he treated me.”
“So basically, fuck him,” Lowe continued. “Fuck his made up music personality. Fuck his fake kindness. Fuck him for using me almost daily. Fuck him for making me want to commit suicide to get out. Fuck him for my therapy bills & medication. Fuck him for alienating me from everyone I love.”
Following the allegations of abuse, Alex’s family released a statement confirming Beach Slang have broken up and James is receiving inpatient treatment; detailing Alex’s diagnosis with bipolar disorder, paranoid schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder.
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“James is not perfect, and never claimed to be. After a lifetime of suicidal ideation, Beach Slang was simply intended to be an outlet of positivity in rock and roll, and an attempt to heal himself and any sad or broken friends he met along the way,” they wrote.
“His “fake music persona” wasn’t some facade derived with malice to dupe or harm anyone, it was a coping mechanism created to overcome his struggles. Yes he had moments of compulsiveness, emotional instability, and chaotic relationships, but none of his actions were intentional or meant to hurt or harm anyone, certainly not those who cared for or believed in him.”
The statement continued, “They were an unfortunate result of unimaginable childhood trauma, violent physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and years of untreated resultant severe mental health issues. James is diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Paranoid Schizophrenia, and now Borderline Personality Disorder. This is not to invalidate or negate anyone’s feelings, or experiences, it is only to explain the unexplained or unseen cause to the effects, as the internet can be very black and white, and mental illness is largely a grey area.
“While mental illness does not excuse anyone to cause others emotional duress, it should at least be acknowledged that it may cause one to unknowingly hurt others and themselves with their words and actions. James was starting treatment before these allegations were made, and is now in an inpatient facility after attempting to take his life. He is getting the help he needs and will be on a true path to recovery. Please know you’ve been heard. While it may have not felt like enough, or that it came soon enough, he has tried to make amends and reconcile his behaviors.”
Elsewhere in the statement, the family confirmed that in light of the allegations against James, Beach Slang have called it a day.
“Beach Slang is over. He has no plans to return to music. He would just like the opportunity for forgiveness, compassion, and understanding, or if not, to be forgotten so everyone involved can move on with peace in their lives. To those who have supported, played in, or worked with Beach Slang, thank you for your time, dedication, and love. For those who can no longer do that, you can know it was still appreciated when you did, but understood if you now cannot.”
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Charlie Lowe penned a response to Beach Slang’s statement, writing, “Past trauma isn’t a blank check to perpetuate more trauma. Thanks for, again, another manipulation tactic RE the BS ‘statement’ on IG.”
“Also that ‘statement’ contains no apology whatsoever nor does it mention me at all, effectively silencing me as the victim & putting the spotlight right back on James for sympathy,” she continued. “It’s unreal how fucking gross this is & continues to be.”
