Miley Cyrus has expressed her support for emerging music star Chappell Roan, standing by her decision to establish firm boundaries as she navigates her newfound fame. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar published Thursday, Cyrus spoke candidly about the challenges of stardom in the digital age and the criticisms Roan has faced.
Cyrus, reflecting on her own journey, empathised with Roan’s struggles. “I wish people would not give her a hard time,” Cyrus said about the Pink Pony Club singer. “It’s probably really hard coming into this business with phones and Instagram. That wasn’t always a part of my life, and I’m not a part of it now. I don’t even have my Instagram password.”
A Supportive Network
Roan has enjoyed public backing from high-profile figures in the music industry during her breakout year. In June, she shared on TikTok how “the girls” in the pop scene have rallied behind her, offering friendship and guidance. “It’s just sick, and it makes me believe in the world,” she said at the time.
According to a Rolling Stone article in September, Cyrus personally invited Roan to a party, while other stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, and Hayley Williams have also extended their support. Roan noted that this solidarity among women in the industry has been a powerful source of encouragement as she rises to prominence.
Fame and Boundaries
Despite the camaraderie, Roan has faced backlash for setting firm limits on her interactions with fans. In August, she posted two TikTok videos addressing behaviour she described as predatory. Dressed casually, she directly called out individuals who harass or impose upon her personal life.
“If you saw a random woman on the street, would you yell at her from the car window? Would you harass her in public?” she asked in the first video. Roan highlighted the entitlement some people feel toward celebrities, likening it to behaviour that would be unacceptable in any other context.
In a follow-up video, she doubled down on her stance, rejecting the notion that such behaviour is “normal” for public figures. “I don’t care that this crazy type of behaviour comes with the job. That does not make it okay,” Roan said. “I’m allowed to say no to creepy behaviour, okay?”
Cyrus Weighs In
Cyrus, who has lived much of her life in the public eye, acknowledged the unique difficulties of fame in today’s hyper-connected world. She noted how her upbringing and celebrity status have shaped people’s perceptions of her, sometimes making it challenging to connect authentically.
“I can drop my persona really easily, but it’s hard for other people to erase that part of you,” Cyrus told Harper’s Bazaar. Despite this, she described herself as a friend to all and emphasised her ability to connect with others through her art and personality.
Grammy Recognition and Public Scrutiny
Roan’s rapid ascent has not gone unnoticed. She is among the most nominated artists at next year’s Grammy Awards, a testament to her talent and growing influence. However, her rise has also subjected her to increased scrutiny, with some criticising her for calling out fan behaviour.
Fans and industry insiders have debated whether Roan’s boundaries are an essential act of self-preservation or an overreaction to the realities of fame. Nonetheless, her candidness has sparked important conversations about the treatment of public figures and the importance of respecting their privacy.
As Chappell Roan navigates the highs and lows of fame, Miley Cyrus’s vocal support underscores the need for compassion and understanding in the often relentless world of celebrity culture. Roan’s refusal to tolerate inappropriate behaviour sets a precedent for others in the industry, reminding fans that artists, too, are entitled to their personal space and well-being.
With the Grammys on the horizon and a growing fan base, Roan’s journey continues to captivate audiences. As she forges ahead, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience required to thrive in the limelight.