Couple's unusual gender reveal sparks controversy: 'What does that mean?'

Gender reveal parties have come under frequent attack in recent years - often labelled unnecessary and even dangerous. However, one stunt shared on social media has sparked controversy - for all of the reasons you wouldn't expect.

The clip, posted by expecting Californian mum Cristy Bell, and her husband, Taylor, starts with the dad-to-be holding a blue and pink popper.

A text caption pops up on the video, with a clear warning: "So many people disapproved of this gender reveal."

WATCH the video above

The US couple is clearly excited, but before the popper is burst, Taylor says, "No matter what gender you are, we love you."

Upon pulling the string, orange confetti flies into the sky and Bell jumps into her husband's arms. The clip concludes with text, "Coming 2023."

The original video was posted on Bell's Instagram account in July, racking up 3.3 million views, leaving many people confused. The couple also copped a barrage of criticism.

"What does that mean?" asked one. "Why orange?" said another. "I'm confused. Your logic of gender and sex is ridiculous."

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And so, Bell decided to repost the video to her Facebook account with additional captions highlighting the hate she received - resulting in 15 million people viewing the video and sparking a heated debate about the need for gender reveals.

For many viewers, it was clear that the video was an ode to being happy no matter what gender the baby was.

"This is so beautiful, I am so happy to see how happy you are to welcome a child to this crazy world. You both will be great parents," wrote one.

"Thank you so much for this. Just be happy to be pregnant... so many have to do gender reveals and it's all about trying to outdo each other," added another.

"It is such an amazing thing to be pregnant - just enjoy those moments like this couple."

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But others were confused, and even angry, with the outcome.

"How stupid! 60 seconds of my life I can't get back," complained one.

"What the heck does yellow mean?" chimed in another.

A third added, "I understand you don't care what the gender is, but what's the point in making a 'gender reveal' video."