Chappell Roan stands out as one of the most courageous artists of her generation, consistently advocating for her beliefs. However, this boldness comes with a price, as she faces backlash that can be quite overwhelming. Despite her strong persona, Roan is deeply aware of the negative reactions that can arise when she expresses her thoughts and feelings openly.
During an enlightening interview with SZA for Interview Magazine, published on June 17, the pop sensation shared her experiences with public criticism. Throughout the past year, she has ignited significant discussions surrounding issues like toxic fan behavior and political endorsements. When SZA inquired whether Roan was affected by the backlash, Roan responded with honesty, revealing the emotional toll it takes on her.
“I didn’t until people started hating me for me and not for my art,” Roan candidly admitted. “When the focus shifts from my artistic creations to personal attacks, it feels like they dislike me for who I am, Kayleigh, rather than my music. That’s when everything altered for me.”
“I find that when people take my words out of context, they make vast assumptions about my character,” she continued. “I was surprised to discover how much I would care about these opinions. With my art, I have an attitude of, ‘You can hate it if you want. I’m fine with that.’ But when it translates to my personal life, I can’t help but wonder, ‘Am I really the most insufferable person of our generation?’”
Luckily, Roan isn’t facing these feelings alone. SZA empathized, revealing that she too feels the sting of harsh criticism. She expressed to Roan, “Perhaps we all secretly care… I have tried to convince myself that I’m indifferent to the opinions of others, but it’s unsettling to realize how far off people can be from my true self.”
“It makes me cry,” Roan confided. “I can’t predict if hearing someone say something malicious about me will ever feel acceptable.”
Roan has previously discussed the emotional struggle of feeling misunderstood. During a guest appearance with Sasha Colby on TS Madison’s Outlaws podcast in May, she reflected on being labeled a “villain” at various times in her career, emphasizing, “I cannot endure being characterized as something I am not.”
Despite these challenges, Roan remains steadfast in her commitment to expressing her opinions and advocating for herself. She recounted instances where she confronted photographers at two separate events in 2024. “I believe I’m navigating this in a way that feels authentic to me, though not everyone appreciates it,” she told SZA during their discussion for Interview. “At this point in my career, I’m assessing whether my approach is sustainable. Am I prepared for the repercussions of speaking my truth? That’s the phase I find myself in right now.”
