Backlash Over 'Toxic' Teaser Pushes Actress Beatriz Taufenbach Off Instagram

Brazilian Model and Actress Beatriz Taufenbach has reportedly deleted her Instagram account amid widespread online backlash following her appearance in a controversial intimate car scene in the teaser for the upcoming Kannada film Toxic, starring superstar Yash. The teaser, released on January 8, 2026, quickly went viral, sparking intense curiosity and debate over the identity of the woman featured alongside Yash. Director Geetu Mohandas later confirmed Beatriz's involvement through an Instagram Story, identifying her as the actress in the scene.

Beatriz Taufenbach, who began her career as a model in 2014, is also known for her work as a singer. The scene in question drew sharp criticism for being perceived as obscene and explicit, leading to formal complaints. The Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) Women's Wing filed a petition with the Karnataka State Women's Commission, arguing that the visuals harm the social well-being of women and children while undermining Kannada cultural values. In response, the Commission urged the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to intervene. However, CBFC sources clarified that teasers released solely on YouTube do not require certification, as the board's jurisdiction applies only to theatrical films and trailers.

Adding to the pressure, social activist Dinesh Kallahalli lodged a separate complaint with the CBFC, describing the teaser as containing "grossly obscene, sexually explicit, and vulgar" content that is widely accessible on social media without restrictions, potentially exposing minors to harmful material. The growing controversy appears to have prompted Beatriz to remove her Instagram presence, though no official statement from her has been issued regarding the decision.

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Director Geetu Mohandas addressed the trolling with a pointed Instagram Story, stating, "Chilling while people figure out female pleasure, consent, women playing systems, etc., etc." Her response highlighted themes of consent and female agency in the scene, while filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma publicly supported her bold creative choice. The debate has divided opinions, with some questioning the necessity of the intimate sequence in a promotional teaser.

Toxic, directed by Geetu Mohandas, features an ensemble cast including Nayanthara, Rukmini Vasanth, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, and Tara Sutaria. The high-profile project is scheduled for a theatrical release on March 19, 2026, where it will compete at the box office with Dhurandhar Part 2. As discussions continue over cultural sensitivities, consent in cinema, and the limits of promotional content, the film's team faces mounting scrutiny ahead of its much-anticipated arrival.

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