Chappell Roan, the queer singer-songwriter who has recently skyrocketed to mainstream success, is taking a stand against public harassment. After years of hard work in the music industry, including providing vocals on an Olivia Rodrigo album, Roan has become a favorite among music legends like Sir Elton John and Adele. However, with her growing fame has come an unfortunate downside: the invasive behavior of some fans.
In a candid TikTok video posted on August 19, Roan expressed her frustration with the harassment and stalking she has faced. She asked her fans to consider how they would feel if a random woman on the street were subjected to such behavior. “Would you yell at her from the car window? Would you harass her in public? Would you go up to a random lady and ask for a photo, and then get angry when she says no?” Roan questioned, highlighting the absurdity of the entitlement some fans feel towards celebrities.
Roan continued in a follow-up video, addressing the normalization of abusive behavior towards those in the public eye. “I don’t care that abuse, harassment, and stalking are considered ‘normal’ for famous people. It doesn’t make it okay. It doesn’t mean I want it, and it certainly doesn’t mean I have to accept it,” she stated firmly. Roan emphasized that she is entitled to set boundaries and that no one has the right to invade her personal space, regardless of her public status.
Her message serves as a powerful reminder that celebrities, like anyone else, deserve respect and privacy. The expectations placed on public figures to always be available for fan interactions can lead to dangerous and unhealthy dynamics. Roan’s assertive stance is a call for everyone to reconsider how they approach and engage with those in the spotlight.