Melodi, TV3 under fire for 'making' Bella Astillah award ex-husband's scandal Sophia, netizens not holding back
The incident reignited a highly publicised scandal and triggered accusations of emotional exploitation and insensitivity.
TV3 and its show Melodi are under fire after Bella was made to present an award to her ex-husband's alleged former flame, Sophia, at AMT25. Photo: Facebook
The AMT25 finale, held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC), became the talk of the nation, not because of the winners but due to the visibly tense exchange between Bella and Sophia on stage.
Bella, whose full name is Dayang Ara Nabellah Awang Astillah, 31, was presenting the award for Hottest Female Celebrity alongside Muar Member of Parliament (MP) Syed Saddiq.
When announcing Sophia as the winner, Bella delivered the line:
'Huh, this one I know very well, Sophia.'
Her expression, tone and body language made it clear that the moment was anything but casual.
Bella did not greet, look at or stand next to Sophia as she handed her the trophy; visibly uncomfortable throughout the encounter.
The moment, now viral across social media platforms, sparked a storm of criticism against TV3 and Melodi, with many accusing the network of deliberately setting up the encounter to stir drama and boost ratings.
Netizens were swift and vocal in their condemnation of the organisers.
Instagram user @fatinnuridayu wrote: 'Bella looked like she was holding back. Her voice was barely audible. Like she was about to have an anxiety attack. Who made Bella announce Sophia's part? Are they ignorant or just deliberately cruel? This is outrageous.'
Another user, @asfa_azfarizah, echoed the sentiment: 'Why did Bella have to announce that part? Melodi?'
@ayu_mashruddin criticised the decision-making behind the event: 'Whoever scheduled Bella to hand the award for that category, senseless move. Is TV3 desperate for cheap virality?'
In contrast, some praised Bella's composure despite the difficult situation. User @kupluv commented: 'Well done Bella. Even though Melodi tried to stir drama, you handled it like a queen. You did it well, slay girl!'
The awkward encounter reignited memories of a 2023 scandal involving Bella, Sophia and Bella's then-husband, singer Aliff Aziz.
At the time, Sophia was accused of being the third party in Bella and Aliff's marriage during the filming of 'Ku Akan Kau Dengan Bismillah'.
Bella publicly shared screenshots showing Sophia apologising and expressing her wish to 'clear the air.'
TV3 and its show Melodi are under fire after Bella was made to present an award to her ex-husband's alleged former flame, Sophia, at AMT25. Photo: Facebook
The issue became one of the most talked-about entertainment controversies of the year.
Bella and Aliff, who married in 2016, were officially divorced for the second time on June 13, 2024, with one revocation (talak satu).
They share two children: Ayden Adrian and Ara Adreanna.
Following the ceremony, Bella was spotted by reporters but quickly dodged questions, appearing visibly distressed.
Her silence only further fuelled public anger and speculation about the organisers' motives.
Social media has since erupted with criticism of TV3 and Melodi, with users accusing the broadcaster of lacking empathy and professionalism.
While Melodi and TV3 may have aimed to create a dramatic awards night, they now face serious questions about ethics, compassion and emotional responsibility.
For many, the Bella-Sophia incident was not entertainment; it was a raw, painful reminder of unresolved wounds, played out for the cameras.
Whether TV3 will respond to the backlash remains to be seen, but one thing is clear; audiences are not staying silent.
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