Chappell Roan has taken the pop world by storm over the last eight months, rising from relative anonymity to becoming a chart-topping sensation. However, as the 26-year-old concludes her sold-out UK tour, she faces an unexpected struggle: the darker side of fame.
Recently, Roan opened up on TikTok about the “creepy behavior” she’s encountered from fans, which has been viewed over 30 million times. In these videos, she emphasized the importance of respecting her personal space after experiencing uncomfortable interactions, including a fan grabbing and kissing her at a bar. She even revealed that police had to step in when an autograph seeker wouldn’t take no for an answer.
In a candid interview with The Face magazine, Roan hinted that she might consider leaving the music industry if the harassment continues. “Fame feels like having an abusive ex-husband,” she said, expressing how overwhelming the attention can be.
Known for her drag persona, Roan, whose real name is Kayleigh Amstutz, strives to maintain a clear distinction between her stage character and personal life. While her authenticity has won her many fans, it also means that she feels the weight of their expectations. She described the modern music landscape as a space where fans often feel entitled to share their personal struggles with her, a responsibility she finds difficult to manage.
Her attempts to draw boundaries have sparked mixed reactions. While many fans support her, some critics argue that she should accept the challenges that come with fame. In response, advocates for her cause, including fellow artists, have come forward to back her call for healthier fan relationships.
