Twitch streamer and rapper Aspen Kartier is facing intense backlash after a viral clip appeared to show her striking her dog during a live broadcast—an incident that has now led to her suspension from the platform. The footage, which spread rapidly across social media, has ignited outrage among viewers and sparked wider conversations about animal welfare and accountability in the livestreaming world.
Kartier, who built a following through Chicago’s drill music scene before expanding into gaming and lifestyle streams, had amassed tens of thousands of followers across Twitch and YouTube. But on January 28, 2026, her online presence took a dramatic turn. During a live session, viewers reported hearing her scold her dog after it got out of its crate, followed by sounds many interpreted as repeated hitting. The dog could be heard yelping, and video showed Kartier lifting the animal by the scruff and moving it out of frame.
Within hours, the clip was circulating widely on X and Reddit, prompting calls for action. Twitch removed Kartier’s channel, effectively banning her from the platform. While the company has not publicly detailed the terms of the suspension, its community guidelines clearly prohibit violence or harm toward animals, placing the incident squarely under scrutiny.
The controversy has dramatically altered Kartier’s public image. Once known primarily for her music and energetic streams, she has now become a polarizing figure online. Forums and comment sections filled with condemnation, with some users urging authorities and animal welfare groups to investigate whether the incident could violate animal cruelty laws.
In response, Kartier posted videos on Instagram showing her dog appearing unharmed, encouraging it to look “fine” on camera. She also shared captions insisting she would “beat these allegations,” a move that critics argued came off as defiant rather than apologetic. Supporters, however, maintain that the clip lacks full context and that conclusions shouldn’t be drawn without more information.
As debate continues to swirl, Kartier’s career hangs in the balance. Whether she returns to Twitch, pivots to another platform, or faces further consequences remains to be seen. For now, the incident stands as another reminder of how quickly a livestream moment can spiral into a career-defining controversy.
