As if being declared a war criminal by the courts, losing your last shot at getting that finding overturned, leaving your billionaire backer(s) millions out of pocket and generally bringing great shame upon the Australian Defence Force wasn’t bad enough. Now, Ben Roberts-Smith, the Victoria Cross recipient and former soldier has an impersonator.
Recently brought to CBD’s attention was a profile bearing the name “Ben Roberts-Smith, VC MG” on personalised video-sharing website Cameo, which allows users to purchase a brief, customised video message from a celebrity of their choice.
Who is impersonating Ben Roberts-Smith?Credit: Sam Mooy
The website was at its peak during the dark days of COVID lockdowns, drawing users desperate for a little dose of serotonin. And while the novelty value has waned, for $150 or so, you can still buy a personalised pep talk from a B-grade Hollywood actor or washed-up reality TV star, a disgraced footballer, or even Nigel Farage. Or Schapelle Corby.
And now, it seems, BRS. The profile, which has been live since August last year, while Roberts-Smith was awaiting the Full Federal Court’s decision in his defamation appeal, promises birthday messages, pep talks and advice starting from $151.59.
A profile pertaining to be Ben Roberts-Smith on the custom video website CameoCredit: Cameo
“Ben is Australia’s most decorated living soldier,” the bio reads. “He was awarded the Victoria Cross, Medal of Gallantry and Commendation for Distinguished Service during multiple deployments in Afghanistan.” No mention of killing unarmed prisoners, strangely enough.
Even stranger, CBD has it on good authority that the profile isn’t real, and was not created, nor authorised, by Roberts-Smith. Who, then, was behind the account? And what kind of videos would customers be receiving from the fake BRS? At $150 plus a video, it’s a costly mystery to solve.
