An invasion of personal space. The crossing of boundaries. The throwing of cell phones. Yes, being a celebrity comes with its positives, but it also comes with its difficult negatives. This has been a controversial topic for several years, and countless famous personalities have shared their thoughts. The idea of being constantly scrutinized is enough for anyone to fear fame, and the rising star, Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, better known as Chappell Roan, has recently spoken up about her feelings on being approached in public.
On Aug. 19, the “HOT TO GO!” singer-songwriter addressed inappropriate fan behavior in two TikToks that she had posted. Previous to this event, there have been several occasions during interviews and talk shows where she has expressed her apprehension about being approached outside of her work. She explained the tiresome expectations that she feels have been put on her and other celebrities and how she should be able to live life like a normal human being on her social media posts.
As with anything that stars do or say, backlash was voiced from fans and critics. Many listeners rushed to her side to show support and appreciation for her bravery in speaking up for herself, but others expressed different opinions on the subject. The app X, formerly known as Twitter, has become a popular platform for discourse over the subject matter. User @positionsmafiaa said, “She chose this career and is so ungrateful for all the success and new fans she received smh.” Numerous accounts shared similar feelings, but performers like Hayley Williams, who is the lead singer of Paramore, and Lady Gaga exchanged their praise for Roan. “I’m really thankful Chappell is able to address it in a real way…it’s brave and unfortunately necessary,” said Williams.
The intrusion of privacy has become a common and normalized occurrence within the pop-culture community, especially among females. The fact that Roan spoke up on this issue is something that many people have admired. Fame is most often looked at through rose-colored glasses. One receives love, money, and an ego boost. But one also acquires vulnerability, paranoia, and a loss of privacy. Approaching celebrities at a meet and greet or a concert is a much different act than begging for a picture on the street. I know when many of us see our peers in school or work, it can be fun to chat and have fun. The second we see that same person in the middle of a store, it can be a different story because of the varying atmospheres and head spaces.
People act differently when they’re at work rather than when they’re spending their free time. It’s nice to take a break from tasks, so when that rest is interrupted it’s frustrating. That is what Roan was trying to convey. Setting boundaries should not be looked at as a negative or rude gesture. It embraces trust, safety, and respect which everyone can benefit from.
