Charleston White Retracts Support for Karmelo Anthony’s Father, Slams Him as “Weak” and Backs Austin Metcalf’s Dad Instead.
In a stunning reversal that has sent shockwaves through the already divided Karmelo Anthony case, outspoken commentator Charleston White has publicly withdrawn his support for the convicted teen’s family. White, who had pledged $75,000 toward Karmelo Anthony’s appeal following his 35-year sentence for the fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf, now says he is “off the case” entirely and would rather stand with Austin Metcalf’s father, Jeff Metcalf.
The controversy erupted after White expressed deep frustration with Karmelo’s father, Andrew Anthony, accusing him of being too “weak” and more interested in paying personal bills than fighting aggressively for his son’s freedom. In a heated livestream, White declared he would not contribute any funds toward Karmelo’s appeal, citing concerns over how the family has handled the substantial donations already raised – reportedly over $600,000 on platforms like GiveSendGo before it was shut down post-verdict.
“I ain’t putting no money toward that boy. His daddy too weak for me,” White stated bluntly. He criticized the father for lacking the willingness to “die, kill, or go to jail” for his son, suggesting the family prioritized personal financial relief over a genuine legal battle. White also mentioned plans to return donations he had collected, further distancing himself from the Anthony camp.
This dramatic shift comes amid escalating tensions between the two families. Jeff Metcalf, Austin’s father, had previously gone on the offensive in interviews and podcasts, blasting Karmelo’s parents as “cowards” and “grifters” who only showed strong support when crowdfunding money was flowing in. The back-and-forth has only intensified the racial and emotional divide surrounding the 2025 track meet stabbing case in Frisco, Texas.
Karmelo Anthony, now 19, was convicted of first-degree murder for stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a rain delay at a high school track meet in April 2025. The case has drawn national attention, with debates over self-defense claims, racial dynamics, and the justice system. White had initially been critical but later apologized to the Anthony family after meeting them, even pledging significant financial help for an appeal he viewed as unfair due to an all-white jury and other factors.
Now, White’s about-face highlights ongoing disputes about transparency with the raised funds, alleged BLM ties, and the strength of the family’s advocacy. Supporters of Karmelo have expressed disappointment, while others see White’s move as a principled stand against perceived weakness or mismanagement. Jeff Metcalf’s outspoken nature, including controversial remarks, has also fueled the fire on the other side.
The high-profile case continues to divide public opinion, with strong emotions on both sides regarding justice, family responsibility, and media influence. As appeals processes potentially loom and both families navigate the aftermath of the tragedy, White’s public withdrawal adds yet another layer of drama to an already heartbreaking story that refuses to fade from the spotlight.
Many observers note that such public infighting only distracts from the core loss – the death of a young athlete and the imprisonment of another teen whose life has been forever altered. White’s comments reflect his signature no-holds-barred style, but they have also drawn criticism for potentially exploiting the pain of both families for attention.
As the dust settles on this latest twist, the focus for many remains on healing, accountability, and preventing similar tragedies. The Anthony and Metcalf families continue to process profound grief and legal battles, while figures like Charleston White keep the conversation alive – for better or worse – in the court of public opinion.
