Reuben Owen, the 21-year-old farmer from the popular show Our Yorkshire Farm, has responded to a wave of negative reactions following a video shared by his mother, Amanda Owen. The clip, which showed Reuben aiding a ewe during lambing season on their Ravenseat Farm, was met with controversy from some viewers who misinterpreted his actions as rough handling of the sheep.
Known for his dedication and hard work alongside his family on the farm, Reuben was praised by Amanda for his quick thinking and skill in delivering a lamb. Despite her supportive caption highlighting the family’s teamwork during lambing, many fans took issue with what they saw, calling the footage “disgusting” and accusing Reuben of mistreating the animal.
The video depicts Reuben swiftly attending to a struggling ewe—pressing down on her to assist the birthing process while simultaneously catching the newborn lamb. Amanda’s commentary emphasized his multitasking abilities: “Caught ewe. Reuben downs tools and springs into action. Everyone lends a hand, there is no one exempt from lambing time tasks.”
READ MORE: Fears Over 4,115-Home Development Near M5 Raise Concerns for Cheltenham and Surrounding Villages
READ MORE: Clarkson’s Farm’s Kaleb Cooper Overwhelmed by Support After Sharing Emotional Baby News Live on Air
Unfortunately, the clip sparked widespread misunderstanding. Some viewers criticized Reuben for perceived roughness, with comments such as: “Why are you treating the ewe like that? Absolutely disgusting,” and “I know you are farmers so have zero respect for animals but show some kindness, disgusting.”
Other users defended the family’s farming practices, arguing that such hard work is necessary and that critics may not understand the realities of lambing. Reuben himself addressed the backlash in The Telegraph, stating, “I don’t have the time or the inclination to scroll through social media. If you do ever see me on my phone, I’ll be searching for machinery sales. I don’t want a career on television; I want to be known as the guy who digs big holes.”
Currently starring in his own series, Reuben: Life in the Dales on Channel 5, Reuben continues to focus on his passion for farming, emphasizing the practical demands and rewards of life on the land.