The NASCAR community suffered a great loss at news of Sherry Pollex’s death on Sunday, September 17. The philanthropist and former girlfriend of Martin Truex Jr. had lost her battle with cancer after several years of fighting. In response, thousands of tributes poured in from all across the racing world.
However, one controversial message stood out among the others: a post by ex-NASCAR star Danica Patrick.
In response to Truex’s statement on Pollex’s death, Danica Patrick wrote a terse post that appeared to be insensitive.
“I avoid negativity on social at almost all costs,” she wrote. “Almost…. But this is the most insensitive disconnected statement from a guy that I have never liked. And obviously for good reason.”
She then went on to say how she did not care what happened between them but said, “this is as cold as it gets. A PR rep wrote this guaranteed. You’re free from this now Sherry.”
Fans were shocked and outraged at her lack of empathy and tactless comment towards someone who had just passed away and towards someone’s ex-partner who clearly still held fond memories for him despite their split earlier this year.
Fans took to social media to express their outrage over Danica Patrick’s comment about Truex’s statement—which was actually quite touching—in which he said, “From the very minute of her diagnosis Sherry was determined to not only fight ovarian cancer with everything she had, but also make a difference in the lives of others battling this terrible disease. Sherry’s passion for making a difference in the lives of others was inspiring to everyone. Through her tireless charity work for so many years, her legacy will live well beyond our lifetimes and continue to help countless families who are battling ovarian and childhood cancer.”
One fan tweeted: “Danica Patrick’s post on her Instagram story is classless and disgusting.”
Another person added: “Your daily reminder that Danica Patrick is a vile disgusting human being” while another simply called her “insufferable”.
It appears clear that fans expect more respect from those within the industry especially when they are talking about someone who has just passed away due to an illness such as cancer.
