Chappell Roan wasn’t here for the photographers on the VMAs red carpet.
The singer (real name Kayleigh Amstutz) stopped by MTV’s Video Music Awards on Sept. 11 and posed for paparazzi ahead of the show. However, in a now-viral video circulating online, an unseen photographer can be heard yelling at Roan — and things soon got heated.
While adjusting her dress on the red carpet, the singer quickly turned around and shouted, “You shut the f*** up” towards the flashing lights. Roan then pointed at herself and told the photographer, “Not Me.”
It’s unclear what prompted the singer’s response. However, in a subsequent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Roan explained that she gets “anxiety around people yelling,” and described the VMAs carpet as “horrifying.”
Roan received four nominations at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards in the categories of Best New Artist, Push Performance of the Year for “Red Wine Supernova,” Best Trending Video for “Hot To Go!,” and Song Of Summer for “Good Luck, Babe!” — which she also performed live.
The singer won the trophy for Best New Artist during the ceremony at New York’s UBS Arena and gave a heartfelt speech in which she thanked the queer community.
After thanking MTV, her friends, and family, Roan dedicated the award to the drag queens who “inspire” her. She added, “I dedicate this to queer and trans people that fuel pop. To the gays who dedicate my songs to someone they love — or hate.”
“Thank you to the people who are fans, who listen to me, who hear me when I share my joy and my fears,” she continued. “For all the queer kids in the Midwest watching right now: I see you. I understand you because I'm one of you, and don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't be exactly who you want to be.”
The Singer’s Meteoric Rise
The singer released her first album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, in September 2023. The record has since produced seven Billboard Hot 100 hits, including “Pink Pony Club,” “My Kink Is Karma,” “Femininomenon,” “Casual,” “Red Wine Supernova,” “Hot to Go!,” and “Good Luck, Babe!”
Roan’s Viral Moment
Roan’s red carpet rant has since gone viral online, with many users expressing their support for the singer.
“It’s a normal thing, it’s a normal thing,” one user wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). “You should not have to deal with these kind of people and their disrespect.”
Another user added, “I’m so glad she shut them down. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hype and excitement of the VMAs, but it’s important to remember that these are people too, and they deserve to be treated with respect.”
In response to the incident, Roan has remained silent. However, she’s continued to post about her new music and her upcoming tour, which is set to kick off in October in Europe.
Roan’s VMAs Performance
In addition to her red carpet incident, Roan also drew attention for her performance of “Good Luck, Babe!” which she performed in a full chain-mail suit.
Roan’s performance was a hit, with many fans commenting on her “amazing” voice and her “unique” style. The singer’s stage presence was also praised, with many noting her “energy” and her “confidence.”
Roan’s performance was a clear reminder of her talent and her star power. She’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about singers in the music industry, and she’s not showing any signs of slowing down.
The End of an Era?
Roan’s success is also a sign of the changing times in the music industry. As more and more artists use social media to connect with fans, the line between performer and fan is becoming increasingly blurred.
The incident with the photographer on the VMAs red carpet is a reminder of the pressures that come with being a celebrity. In a world where fans have access to their idols 24/7, it can be difficult to maintain a sense of privacy.
However, it’s also a reminder that celebrities are human beings too. They have feelings, they get stressed out, and they sometimes lash out.
Roan’s decision to call out the photographer was a brave one, and it’s one that many fans have praised. In a world where celebrities are often expected to be perfect, it’s refreshing to see someone speak up and stand up for themselves.
Roan’s decision to set boundaries with the paparazzi is likely to set an example for other artists, who may feel pressured to be constantly available to fans.
As Roan’s career continues to grow, she’ll undoubtedly face more challenges. However, her willingness to speak up for herself and her commitment to her artistry is a reminder that she’s not afraid to fight for what she believes in. It’s a quality that has helped her to achieve success in the music industry, and it’s one that will likely continue to serve her well in the years to come.
