Chappell Roan, the rising pop star, shared in a recent interview that fellow artist Lorde reached out to her with advice on handling fame's pressures. The communication followed Roan’s candid TikTok videos where she addressed the unsettling fan behaviors that often accompany celebrity status. In those videos, Roan questioned the acceptability of intrusive actions such as yelling from cars or persistent harassment, asserting that fame does not give people a pass for inappropriate behavior toward her.
After her comments gained attention, numerous prominent figures in the music industry offered their support, including Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, and Katy Perry. Lorde’s response, however, was particularly significant; she provided Roan with a detailed list of eight coping strategies she wished she had received during her own rise to fame.
In a heartfelt moment shared with The Face, Roan recounted an instance of vulnerability when she texted Lorde during an emotional moment while at an airport. Lorde’s guidance varied from personal insights to actionable steps aimed at helping Roan navigate the complexities of public life. Roan noted, "I feel like fame is just abusive... Its vibe is akin to an abusive ex-husband."
Despite her struggles, Roan has enjoyed commercial success, with her debut album, "The Rise And Fall Of A Midwest Princess," released in September 2023, receiving wide acclaim. Recently, the album topped the UK charts nearly a year after its launch, a feat that even earned her congratulations from Elton John.
Roan's experiences and Lorde's mentorship illuminate the darker side of fame and highlight the importance of solidarity among artists in coping with the challenges of public life.
For more on Chappell Roan and her music, visit NME.