Gayety

Tag: Charli XCX

  • Charli XCX Marries George Daniel in a Chic London Ceremony Fit for a Brat Icon

    Charli XCX Marries George Daniel in a Chic London Ceremony Fit for a Brat Icon

    Charli XCX is officially a married woman, and she did it with style, sass, and a sprinkle of silver-plattered cigarettes. The “Brat” pop provocateur tied the knot with The 1975 drummer George Daniel on Saturday, July 19, in a low-key yet effortlessly cool ceremony at Hackney Town Hall in London.

    A Wedding as Stylish as the Bride Herself

    The nuptials were an intimate affair, with just close family and friends in attendance, including Daniel’s bandmates Ross MacDonald and Adam Hann. Notably missing was frontman Matty Healy, who was attending the premiere of I Know What You Did Last Summer, starring his fiancée (and Charli’s “360” video muse) Gabbriette Bechtel.

    Charli, whose real name is Charlotte Aitchison, wore a draped ivory satin Vivienne Westwood mini dress paired with Jimmy Choo slingback heels and a fingertip veil. Naturally, she accessorized with her signature oversized black sunglasses for a fashion-forward edge. Daniel kept things sleek in a classic suit, letting his bride steal the show.

    TikToks, Teacups, and a Touch of Brat

    The bride wasted no time in turning her big day into viral content. Charli posted a TikTok the day after the wedding, showing off her gown to the sound of her own song “Girl, So Confusing.” The caption? “When George isn’t crying when he sees me walking down the aisle.” (Spoiler: he did cry. Lucky him.)

    @charlixcx

    luckily he did xx

    ♬ original sound – will bottone

    Later, she posted another clip from the after-party, revealing a second look, a Saint Laurent white baby doll dress with long sleeves, as she danced with her friends to Far East Movement’s club banger “Like a G6.” George, ever the supportive husband, joined in on the fun, playfully wearing her veil and smoking a cigarette shirtless in front of a fan. Very on brand.

    @charlixcx

    bridal party energy!

    ♬ som original – DM Songs

    Pasta, Champagne, and Cigarettes, Brat Style

    Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and guests headed to the nearby Italian hotspot Dalla for a family-style meal complete with pasta, bubbly, and paparazzi-worthy street style. According to The Sun, they skipped the limos and walked down Hackney High Street instead, with pedestrians doing double takes.

    And yes, they did follow through with their now-iconic wedding plan: silver trays filled with skinny cigarettes for guests. The idea, originally revealed on the Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain podcast, added an extra layer of brat-chic flair to the evening. Instagram Stories from DJ Alex Chapman confirmed the luxurious detail.

    A Romance Spun From Music

    Charli and George first met in 2021 while collaborating on the song “Spinning.” Their creative chemistry soon turned into a real-life relationship. By November 2023, Charli announced their engagement with a cheeky Instagram caption:

    “charli xcx and george daniel f—ing for life!!!”

    With the wedding behind them, the couple seems poised to ride the high of Brat summer well into a bratty honeymoon season. Congrats to Mr. and Mrs. XCX, we wouldn’t expect anything less than maximalist minimalism from pop’s most chaotic-cool bride.

  • Everything You Need in Your Ultimate Pride Month Starter Kit (Yes, Glitter Included)

    Everything You Need in Your Ultimate Pride Month Starter Kit (Yes, Glitter Included)

    Pride Month is like queer Christmas, minus the stress of gift wrapping and plus a whole lot more thigh. Whether you’re a Pride first-timer or a seasoned veteran with fan-snapping wrist strength, you need to be prepared. And what better way than with the ultimate Pride Month Starter Kit?

    Here’s everything you actually need to serve face, protect your phone, flirt with your ex, and make it to July with glitter still in your scalp.

    1. Glitter, But Make It Biodegradable

    We love the planet almost as much as we love looking fabulous, so please make your sparkle sustainable. Biodegradable glitter is the way to go, because the only thing toxic at Pride should be your ex’s texts.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: Writopia Lab

    2. Jean Overalls

    Summer’s here, and the flannels have been laid to rest. Enter: the timeless lesbian classic, jean overalls with a crisp white or black tee underneath. Functional, flirtatious, and with just enough side gap to get a sunburn on your ribcage. We love a seasonal switch-up.

    3. A Fan That Snaps Louder Than Your Ex’s Apologies

    You’re not at Pride unless you’re dramatically snapping open a folding fan every time someone dares to block your breeze. Bonus points if it says “WERK,” “HOT MESS,” or “NO THANKS.” Shade isn’t just encouraged, it’s tradition.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: The Gay Fan Club

    4. A Grindr Premium Subscription

    Pride is Grindr’s Super Bowl. Go ahead and unlock that premium for the weekend, you deserve it. Who needs a map when you can see who’s three feet away, shirtless, and “looking”? Remember to hydrate before you misbehave.

    5. Poppers (For When the Beat, and the Boys, Drop)

    Yes, darling, we went there. If you’re entering a dark room, dancing in a sweaty crowd, or just need a sudden personality reset, poppers are practically Pride cologne. Just remember: not all nostrils were created equal. Sniff responsibly.

    Photo: Alamy
    Photo: Alamy

    6. Your Chosen Family

    More important than any crop top or glitter bomb is the crew you roll with. Whether it’s your ride-or-die queer besties, your drag mom, or your favorite chaotic cousin, Pride is best served with people who get you and won’t judge you for crying during Robyn.

    7. A Signature Look™️

    This isn’t the time to blend in. Think rhinestones, mesh, booty shorts, and body glitter. Or if that’s not your vibe, go full cottagecore lesbian or queer-coded anime villain. The assignment is: Be seen from space.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: ICT Award

    8. Your Favorite Diva Repped Proudly on a Cropped T-Shirt

    Whether it’s Beyoncé, Gaga, Ariana, Cher, or a deep-cut Mariah moment, your diva allegiance must be made known. Bonus points if it’s a bootleg tee from Etsy that says “Mother” in bold font across the chest. Respect your elders.

    9. Crossbody Bag That Says “Try Me, Thief”

    Look, we love a tiny short with no pockets. But shady characters love them even more. Pride events are packed, and the last thing you want is to realize your phone’s gone right after sending a risky text to your situationship. A secure, zipped, crossbody bag is cute and practical. Slay, but safely.

    Snag your glitter, diva tee, and Grindr premium: here’s everything you need in your Pride Month starter kit.
    Photo: DH Club

    10. A Signature Gay Playlist That Pleases the Girls, Gays, and Theys

    This isn’t just any playlist, it’s THE event playlist. It’s Charli XCX followed by Kylie followed by RuPaul followed by “The Climb” just to make everyone cry a little. Your aux cord is a sacred weapon. Use it wisely.

    Now go forth, queer warrior, with your starter kit in hand and your diva playlist queued. Pride Month is here, so be loud, be proud, and be so extra it hurts.

  • Chappell Roan Pops Up as the ‘Apple’ Girl During Charli XCX’s Primavera Set

    Chappell Roan Pops Up as the ‘Apple’ Girl During Charli XCX’s Primavera Set

    If Charli XCX is the queen of chaos this Brat summer, Chappell Roan just crowned herself the court jester.

    In one of the most unexpected, and utterly iconic, moments of Primavera Sound’s opening night, pop provocateur Chappell Roan surprised fans by performing the viral “Apple” dance during Charli XCX’s set on Thursday, June 5. The scene unfolded at Barcelona’s Parc del Fòrum, where thousands gathered to kick off the beloved music festival, and got far more than they bargained for.

    A Rottenly Perfect Pop-In

    Charli, mid-way through her 31-song adrenaline rush of a set, was performing the now-infamous “Apple” track from her Brat album when the jumbotron zeroed in on a group of fans in the crowd. Among them? None other than Chappell Roan herself , unmistakable in bug-eyed sunglasses, a cropped sweatshirt, and the kind of energy only someone born for theater could bring.

    Without missing a beat, Roan began lip-synching along to “I think the apple’s rotten right to the core…” while perfectly executing the dance’s signature hand jive. The moment was silly, chaotic, and expertly timed, everything you’d expect from two of pop’s most genre-defiant forces.

    Charli, catching sight of the performance, screamed into the mic: “Make some f–king noise right now! Chappell, I f–king love you, b–ch!” And honestly? Same.

    The Brat Tradition Lives On

    Charli’s Brat-era shows have taken on a delightful tradition: a live crowd cam moment where fans (and, increasingly, famous faces) perform the “Apple” choreo originated by TikToker Kelley Heyer. Roan joins an eclectic and star-studded lineup of past “Apple” dancers — including BLACKPINK’s Rosé, Clairo, Dave Grohl and his daughter Harper, Stephen Colbert, Ashley Tisdale, and Glen Powell, to name just a few.

    But something about Roan’s chaotic joy and sheer commitment to the bit made the moment instantly iconic.

    Fan Reactions Were Feral

    It didn’t take long for social media to melt down. Clips of the moment flooded TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) within minutes.

    “Me telling my gay roommates chappell roan was the apple girl tonight,” one fan posted.

    Another wrote, “Chappell Roan was tonight’s apple dance! Y’all I cried my eyes out!!!”

    Many fans even joked that Roan should just permanently take over the role, with one saying, “No offense but no one else needs to do the Apple dance again. It’s been perfected.”

    What’s Next for Roan at Primavera?

    This was just a warm-up for Chappell Roan, who’s set to headline her own Primavera Sound set on Saturday, June 7. With her theatrical flair, campy visuals, and newly-minted Apple dance credentials, expectations couldn’t be higher.

    Before Chappell performs on Saturday, queer favorites like Haim, Beach House, Wet Leg, and Sabrina Carpenter will be performing on Friday night, but if Roan’s surprise appearance was any indication, she might just steal the weekend.

  • Closets, Crushes, and Charli XCX: ‘Overcompensating’ Is Prime Video’s Queer Masterpiece

    Closets, Crushes, and Charli XCX: ‘Overcompensating’ Is Prime Video’s Queer Masterpiece

    Benito Skinner is having a moment, and fans can’t get enough of it. The internet sensation—best known as Benny Drama—has officially made the leap from Instagram Reels to streaming royalty with Overcompensating, his raucously queer, painfully relatable college comedy series on Prime Video.

    Released just days ago, the series is already earning glowing reviews, viral praise, and a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. From chaotic frat parties to heart-melting crushes and Charli XCX cameos, Overcompensating is giving viewers a little bit of everything—and a whole lot of gay panic.

    A Queer Coming-of-Age… With Keg Stands

    Skinner stars as a fictionalized version of his college-aged self, Benny, a closeted freshman doing everything he can to mask his queerness—frat parties, chugging beers, and over-the-top bro behavior included. But beneath the football jerseys and shouted greetings lies a boy just trying to figure himself out.

    The plot follows Benny as he forges an intense friendship with Carmen (played by Wally Baram), develops a crush on the effortlessly charming Miles (Rish Shah), and tries desperately to impress his frat bro fantasy, Peter (Adam DiMarco). The result? A beautiful, messy, and painfully familiar portrayal of what it means to perform masculinity while being unsure of where you fit in.

    Social Media Can’t Get Enough

    The response to Overcompensating has been nothing short of euphoric. Social media is flooded with praise, memes, and unfiltered emotion.

    “How f***ing perfect was this scene,” one viewer posted on X alongside a clip of Carmen comforting Benny at a party. “Show of the year.”

    @xcxvoid

    obsessed with this diva | @Benito Skinner | cc sat6rns sc @sky | #overcompensating #overcompensatingedit #overcompensatinghailee #haileeovercompensating #diva #edit #show #foryou

    ♬ original sound – xcxvoid

    Another fan wrote, “Didn’t expect #Overcompensating to eat like this. Came for Charli XCX, stayed for the comedy, chaos & iconic soundtrack. Feels like a love letter to her pop eras wrapped in queer college drama. Funny, real, well-written. I need season 2 like NOW.”

    And one particularly enthusiastic fan declared: “Literally begging everyone to watch the new show Overcompensating. sooo queer and fun and funny. Have been laughing out loud every single episode.”

    Behind the Scenes: Real-Life Shenanigans

    Speaking exclusively to Gayety, Skinner teased his hopes for a second season, admitting there were “so many jokes and one-liners that didn’t make the cut” the first time around. “I’ve already watched the show 200 times,” he laughed. “And every time, I notice something new about these incredible cast members.”

    @gayety

    Benito Skinner says he is ready for a season two after watching season one nearly “200 times” #Overcompensating

    ♬ original sound – Gayety

    What’s Next?

    While Prime Video hasn’t officially announced a second season, the response from fans suggests it’s only a matter of time. With its perfect mix of absurdity, emotional depth, and queer truth, Overcompensating feels like the college comedy we didn’t know we needed—and now can’t live without.

  • Mary Beth Barone Relives Viral Milk Moment: ‘I’d Do Anything Drew Asked!’

    Mary Beth Barone Relives Viral Milk Moment: ‘I’d Do Anything Drew Asked!’

    Mary Beth Barone brought her signature charm and candid humor to the red carpet at the premiere of Overcompensating, the new comedy-drama series streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Held on May 14, the event celebrated creator and star Benito Skinner‘s semi-autobiographical journey through college life, identity, and self-discovery.

    The Milk Challenge: A Moment of Triumph

    Barone’s appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show became a viral sensation when she flawlessly chugged a massive glass of milk. Reflecting on the experience, she admitted to feeling nervous but was emboldened by Barrymore’s unwavering confidence in her abilities. “When I tip this glass back, I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Barone recalled, adding with a laugh, “But then with Drew’s confidence in me, I just felt like I could take on the world.” She jokingly added that seeing any glasses of milk on the red carpet would be “triggering” for her.

    @thedrewbarrymoreshow

    “I am dairy-free for attention.” – @Mary Beth Barone 😂 #overcompensating @Benito Skinner @Wally Baram #primevideo

    ♬ original sound – thedrewbarrymoreshow

    Milk, Mayhem, and Too Many Takes

    Stepping into the role of Grace, Benny’s older, endlessly opinionated sister, was no small feat for Mary Beth Barone, who’s actually the youngest of six in real life. To nail the big sister energy, she worked with an acting coach and dove headfirst into sibling psychology. But nothing could prepare her for Episode 4, where chaos, and comedy, took over.

    Barone recalled one scene in particular where her on-screen boyfriend Peter (played by Adam DiMarco) let loose with so much improvisation, she physically couldn’t keep it together. “He was jumping up and down, just so excited, and every take I broke,” she said. “I was like, ‘I think I’ve ruined the scene. I don’t think we have one usable take.’” Luckily, the magic of editing saved the moment—and likely a lot of blooper reel footage too.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Gayety (@gayety)

    And when the conversation shifted to college, Barone didn’t hold back. She attended Boston College before transferring out and clearly still has a few wild stories tucked away. While she didn’t go into every detail, she hinted that her college years, like her comedy, involved unexpected turns and plenty of laughs.

    The Premiere: A Night to Remember

    The premiere event was a blend of glamour and excitement. After the screening of the first two episodes, attendees enjoyed themed merchandise, delectable snacks, and a surprise DJ set by Haim, turning the evening into an impromptu dance party. Cast members, including Wally Baram, Adam DiMarco, and Rish Shah, joined Barone on the carpet, celebrating the show’s launch.

    (L-R) Rish Shah, Mary Beth Barone, Benito Skinner, Wally Baram and Adam DiMarco attend the "Overcompensating" Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images
    (L-R) Rish Shah, Mary Beth Barone, Benito Skinner, Wally Baram and Adam DiMarco attend the “Overcompensating” Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

    Mary Beth Barone attends the 'Overcompensating' Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images
    Mary Beth Barone attends the ‘Overcompensating’ Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

    (L-R) Mary Beth Barone, Petra Collins, guests, and Benito Skinner attend the 'Overcompensating' Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images
    (L-R) Mary Beth Barone, Petra Collins, guests, and Benito Skinner attend the ‘Overcompensating’ Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

    (L-R) Mary Beth Barone and Kaia Gerber attend the 'Overcompensating' Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images
    (L-R) Mary Beth Barone and Kaia Gerber attend the ‘Overcompensating’ Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

    About ‘Overcompensating’

    Overcompensating follows Benny (Benito Skinner), a closeted former football player navigating his freshman year at Yates University. Seeking to fit in, he befriends Carmen (Wally Baram), a high school outsider. The series delves into themes of identity, self-discovery, and the lengths individuals go to in order to belong. The ensemble cast includes Mary Beth Barone as Grace, Adam DiMarco as Peter, and Rish Shah as Miles. The series is executive produced by Charli XCX and produced by A24 and Amazon MGM Studios.

    You can also now stream all episodes of Overcompensating now on Amazon Prime Video.

  • Charli XCX ‘Channeled That Rage’ on What It’s Really Like Performing for College Students in ‘Overcompensating’

    Charli XCX ‘Channeled That Rage’ on What It’s Really Like Performing for College Students in ‘Overcompensating’

    Charli XCX is officially in her acting era—and it’s just as chaotic and fabulous as you’d expect. In a standout cameo for Benito Skinner’s new comedy series ‘Overcompensating‘, the pop provocateur steals the show in a scene that satirizes college concerts and Gen Z debauchery, and fans are living for every second.

    In a recent interview with Gayety, comedian Benito Skinner and co-star Wally Baram opened up about the behind-the-scenes hijinks of their new project, what it was like keeping straight faces during absurd scenes, and, of course, how Charli XCX became a surprise highlight of the series.

    Charli XCX: Chaos Queen of Campus Concerts

    Skinner, known for his razor-sharp humor and viral online personas (like his fan-favorite character Kooper the Gen Z intern), explained how the idea for Charli’s cameo came to life during the writer’s room process.

    “We were in the writer’s room, and I know when we got to that episode, it was so obvious that she of course was going to do the college concert,” Skinner said. “But I think it was about trying to find a game for her.”

    He recalled being inspired by his own experiences performing at universities and the universal chaos that often surrounds campus events.

    “I had done stand-up at colleges, and I was just thinking… musicians are up there performing their life’s work in front of college kids that are throwing up and making out and fingering each other,” Skinner said, laughing. “I wanted a little bit of a cathartic moment for her—and maybe for musicians watching—to be like, ‘Yeah, that is kind of a nightmare to have to do that.’”

    Skinner added, “She channeled that rage quickly and perfectly, and she was so down and so game. We were so lucky to have her. Oh, my God.”

    Mary Beth Barone and Benito Skinner attend the "Overcompensating" Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
    Mary Beth Barone and Benito Skinner attend the “Overcompensating” Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Prime Video)

    From “Boom Clap” to Bedlam

    Charli’s scene—shot to look like a typical campus concert gone off the rails—manages to feel both hilarious and authentic. For queer audiences and longtime Charli fans, the appearance is not just comedic; it’s iconic. She leans into her status as a cult favorite among LGBTQ+ fans, delivering both humor and attitude in a way only she can.

    The “Seriously Unserious” Comedy Behind the Scenes

    The series itself is a comedy playground, with Skinner and Baram navigating scenes full of improvisation, absurdity, and plenty of queer-coded chaos. “Deeply, seriously unserious,” Baram said when asked about trying not to break character during filming. “Doing scenes across from Holmes was so difficult. It felt like you had some sort of onion in the eye because you were constantly trying to blink back emotion.”

    Skinner added that filming scenes with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang nearly broke him. “I had to think of the worst things that have ever happened to me in order to not laugh while they’re doing this back and forth,” he said. “Literally, every line I was like, ‘Oh, my God, I can’t.’”

    Despite the chaos, Skinner said there was intention behind every scene. Especially when it came to portraying a closeted character. “I said to the director, Daniel Longino, and to Desiree [executive producer], ‘At any point you are allowed to be like, Benny, put on a show a little bit more,’” Skinner explained. “It’s hard. It’s hard to be in the closet. Let me tell you.”

    Rish Shah, Mary Beth Barone, Benito Skinner, Wally Baram and Adam DiMarco attend the "Overcompensating" Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
    Rish Shah, Mary Beth Barone, Benito Skinner, Wally Baram and Adam DiMarco attend the “Overcompensating” Screening And After-Party at Hollywood Palladium on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for Prime Video)

    A Star-Studded, Queer-Forward Comedy

    The series is filled with surprise appearances and a cast that is both hilariously talented and deeply relatable. Skinner and Baram’s on-screen chemistry, combined with appearances from LGBTQ+ faves like Yang and Rogers, makes the show feel like a celebration of queer joy and the absurdity of modern life.

    But it’s Charli XCX who stands out for bringing unexpected emotional depth—and that unmistakable chaotic pop energy. Her willingness to poke fun at the very culture she dominates is what makes her cameo such a perfect fit for the series’ tone.

    Whether you’ve seen her at a real college concert or just streamed her heartbreak bangers while crying on the floor, Charli’s moment here feels like a gift to her fans—and a wink to every queer person who’s ever found euphoria in the chaos.

    Watch the Series Now

    Benito Skinner’s new series ‘Overcompensating’ is streaming now on Prime Video, and Charli XCX’s unforgettable cameo is already generating buzz across social platforms. Whether you’re in it for the laughs, the satire, or the pop royalty, this is a comedy that knows its audience—and serves it well.

  • Charli XCX Drops “Party 4 U” Video and She’s Ready to Burn It All Down

    Charli XCX Drops “Party 4 U” Video and She’s Ready to Burn It All Down

    Charli XCX is giving fans what they’ve been waiting for—and it only took five years and a TikTok explosion to make it happen. To mark the anniversary of her quarantine-era album How I’m Feeling Now, the alt-pop trailblazer has finally released a music video for “party 4 u,” a fan-favorite deep cut that’s recently blown up on TikTok.

    Though never released as a single, “party 4 u” has found a brand-new audience in 2025 thanks to its moody production and aching vulnerability—traits that have translated seamlessly into short-form video gold.

    @_brittanylc

    Living room concert anyone?! 😜 Inspired by: @richardg #momtok #momsoftiktokclub #tiktokmoms #tiktokmomsover30 #millenialmom #charlixcx #party4u #tiktoktrend #lipsync #lipsyncing #momhumor #trendingsong #trends

    ♬ original sound – threeseveteen

    TikTok Brought the Party

    In true 2020s fashion, it wasn’t a record label push that sparked new interest in “party 4 u”—it was the fans. The dreamy track quietly surged on TikTok, racking up more than 2.9 million creator videos and over 6.6 million views, spurred by creators using the song for everything from nostalgic edits to emotional confessions.

    @efeaeyes

    #charlixcx #party4u #relatable #trend #4u #fypシ゚

    ♬ original sound – ava

    Following Charli’s final performance at Coachella, interest in the song hit new highs, with a 95% increase in TikTok video usage and a 101% jump in overall views. The renewed attention launched the song onto Spotify’s U.S. Top 50 and Global Top 50 playlists, and even pushed it onto the Billboard Hot 100—a major achievement for a song that originally lived in the shadows of more commercial singles.

    Visual Symbolism and Emotional Burnout

    The new music video for “party 4 u,” directed by Mitch Ryan and conceived by Charli herself, isn’t just a late visual drop—it’s a cinematic breakdown. The video opens in the aftermath of a messy, invisible party. Charli is alone in a trashed room, packing her things in silence as if gathering the pieces of a shattered moment.

    Then she heads into the desert—a stark, wide-open contrast to the claustrophobic energy of the party space. As she walks, Charli slowly strips off layers of clothing, each item feeling symbolic of the emotional baggage she’s carried. She smokes Parliaments, empties out her Coach purse, and finally stumbles upon a billboard featuring her own face.

    Charli XCX burning the billboard of herself after splattering paint all over it. Photo: Atlantic Records/Charli XCX
    Photo: Atlantic Records/Charli XCX

    Charli XCX seeing a billboard of herself in the music video for 'party 4u.' Photo: Atlantic Records/Charli XCX
    Photo: Atlantic Records/Charli XCX

    In a final act of rebellion or release—depending on how you view it—she paints over her image in thick black strokes and sets the billboard ablaze. It’s Spring Breakers-meets-performance art, showing how fame, identity, and emotion often combust under pressure.

    The video doesn’t aim for sleekness—it leans into the raw, with intentionally unpolished edges and a surreal, home-video aesthetic that mirrors the lo-fi roots of How I’m Feeling Now.

    A Moment Five Years in the Making

    Charli accompanied the video release with a handwritten message to fans on Instagram, marking the fifth anniversary of the album and thanking her community for helping her make the record during a deeply isolating time. She called the era “raw, stripped, and vulnerable”—qualities that clearly inspired the new video’s tone.

    Excerpt from heartfelt handwritten letter from Charli XCX posted to Instagram Wednesday (May 14).
    Excerpt from heartfelt handwritten letter from Charli XCX posted to Instagram Wednesday (May 14). Photo: Instagram (@charli_xcx)

    “I really can’t believe that five years later, one of the Angel favorites is having its own special moment,” she wrote.

    And what a moment it is. What started as a non-single tucked deep in a pandemic-era project has now become a viral anthem, reimagined with a fierce, fiery visual to match.

    Watch the “party 4 u” music video now and see why this slow-burn favorite is finally blazing.

  • Charli XCX Celebrates 5 Years of How I’m Feeling Now With New ‘Party 4 U’ Music Video

    Charli XCX Celebrates 5 Years of How I’m Feeling Now With New ‘Party 4 U’ Music Video

     

    It’s been five years since Charli XCX dropped her boundary-pushing quarantine album How I’m Feeling Now, and the pop provocateur is throwing a proper celebration—with a brand-new music video for fan-favorite track “party 4 u,” dropping May 15.

    In a handwritten note posted to Instagram on Wednesday, the genre-blending star got reflective about her 2020 DIY-era record, which she wrote and produced in just five weeks during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Honestly just feels like yesterday,” she wrote. “So much has changed since then: me, my life, elements of my music and most definitely the world.”

    Excerpt from heartfelt handwritten letter from Charli XCX posted to Instagram Wednesday (May 14).
    Excerpt from heartfelt handwritten letter from Charli XCX posted to Instagram Wednesday (May 14). Photo: Instagram (@charli_xcx)

    Pandemic Pop, Reborn

    Though How I’m Feeling Now wasn’t a chart-topping release—it peaked at No. 111 on the Billboard 200—it has long held cult status among Charli’s fans. Created in full lockdown, with real-time input from fans via livestreams and social media, the album became a raw, glitchy, and emotional time capsule.

    “I felt like I rediscovered myself, my sanity and my connection with the world at a time when we were all so alone,” Charli wrote.

    “Party 4 U” Finds New Life

    Fast forward to 2025, and How I’m Feeling Now is having a moment—again. One track in particular, “party 4 u,” has recently gone viral on TikTok, sending it soaring onto the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time—five years after its release. On the chart dated May 17, 2025, it reached No. 55, giving the track its highest peak yet.

    Never one to let a moment pass quietly, Charli teased a brand-new music video for the song, sharing a cryptic close-up video of her eyes set to the track, captioned: “5 years later… the party 4 u video. tomorrow.”

    A Celebration Fit for the Angels

    The singer also posted a TikTok of herself sprinting down a deserted street clutching pink balloons—a visual easter egg pulled directly from the lyrics of “party 4 u.” In her handwritten note, she wrote, “I really can’t believe that 5 years later one of the Angel favorites is having its own special moment.”

    “So obviously I wanted to do something to celebrate,” she added. “This one’s for you Angels.”

    A Charli Year to Remember

    The fifth anniversary of How I’m Feeling Now comes at a busy time for the Essex-born artist. Fresh off back-to-back weekends at Coachella 2025—where she performed “party 4 u” and shared the stage with Lorde, Troye Sivan, and Billie Eilish for Brat remix collabs—Charli just wrapped four sold-out nights at Barclays Center in Brooklyn as part of her Brat Tour.

    She heads next to Europe, starting with a show in Poland on May 31.

     

  • Full Trailer Drops for Benito Skinner’s New College Comedy ‘Overcompensating’ on Prime Video

    Full Trailer Drops for Benito Skinner’s New College Comedy ‘Overcompensating’ on Prime Video

    Get ready to relive the awkward, vodka-soaked chaos of college life—because Benito Skinner, best known online as Benny Drama, is suiting up for a hilarious return to campus in his new comedy series Overcompensating.

    The upcoming series, produced by A24, Strong Baby, and Amazon MGM Studios, premieres May 15 on Prime Video and promises a nostalgic, cringe-filled trip through the highs and lows of freshman year. Skinner stars as Benny, a closeted former high school football star and homecoming king, who’s just trying to figure out who he is—while surviving the social jungle that is college.

    According to a release from Amazon, Overcompensating is “a college-set ensemble comedy about the wild, chaotic journey of Benny… as he becomes fast friends with Carmen (Wally Baram), a high school outsider on a mission to fit in at all costs.” Helping (or maybe hindering) their journey are Benny’s no-nonsense older sister, played by Mary Beth Barone, and her effortlessly cool, campus-legend boyfriend (Adam DiMarco).

    Expect flavored vodka, fake IDs, regrettable hookups, and a cappella groups that no one asked for—all part of what makes Overcompensating equal parts heartwarming and hilariously unhinged.

    The show’s trailer teases a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud romp full of classic college tropes: think frat parties, secret societies, chaotic dorm life, and more than one identity crisis. Anyone who’s ever tried to reinvent themselves—or just survive freshman orientation—will find something to relate to.

    And if the premise wasn’t enticing enough, the series is stacked with a star-studded roster of guest appearances. Comedy duo Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers (Las Culturistas) appear as an outrageously dramatic couple, Charli XCX plays herself (naturally), and Lukas Gage, James Van Der Beek, and even Megan Fox (well, a poster of her) make appearances.

    For Skinner, who rose to fame creating viral characters online, Overcompensating marks a new chapter—one that brings his signature humor to a broader, binge-worthy platform. The series also digs into deeper themes of identity, friendship, and the many ways people try (and fail) to fit in.

    Overcompensating premieres exclusively on Prime Video on May 15. Until then, check out the official trailer and brace yourself for some major secondhand embarrassment—in the best way possible.

  • Addison Rae Releases New Single ‘Headphones On’ Alongside Music Video Ahead of Debut Album Drop June 6

    Addison Rae Releases New Single ‘Headphones On’ Alongside Music Video Ahead of Debut Album Drop June 6

    Pop newcomer Addison Rae continues her ascent in the music industry with the release of her latest single, “Headphones On,” out now via Columbia Records. The track marks the fourth release from Rae’s highly anticipated debut album, which is set to drop June 6.

    The emotional, synth-pop single arrived Wednesday with a cinematic music video filmed in Reykjavik, Iceland, adding another visually rich layer to Rae’s carefully crafted artistic aesthetic. Co-written and produced by Luka Kloser and Elvira Anderfjärd, “Headphones On” blends Rae’s signature dreamy sound with some of her most vulnerable lyrics to date, offering fans a deeper look into her emotional world and musical growth.

    “Headphones On” Offers a Glimpse Into Rae’s Inner World

    The Mitch Ryan-directed music video opens with Rae aimlessly shopping in a grocery store before slipping on her headphones. From there, viewers are transported into a daydream where Rae roams the vast Icelandic countryside — dancing, twirling, and soaking in her solitude.

    The dreamlike visuals reflect the emotional tone of the song, which focuses on themes of escapism, healing, and accepting the past. The chorus line, “Wish my mom and dad could have been in love,” strikes a deeply personal chord, reflecting Rae’s willingness to explore family trauma and emotional scars in her songwriting.

    She continues in the pre-chorus, singing:
    “You can’t fix what has already been broken / You just have to surrender to the moment.”

    The track is both haunting and hopeful, underscoring Rae’s talent for combining pop melodies with introspective themes.

    A Breakout Year for the Pop Star

    The release of “Headphones On” follows a string of successful singles and a breakout year for the 23-year-old singer, who first gained fame as a TikTok influencer and actress. Rae officially signed with Columbia Records in 2024 and quickly began building credibility as a serious music artist.

    Her debut single with the label, “Diet Pepsi,” arrived in October 2024 and marked her first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100, debuting at No. 86 and later peaking at No. 54. The nostalgic pop track helped introduce Rae’s dreamy, synth-heavy sound and marked a major turning point in her career.

    She followed that success with two more singles, “Aquamarine” and “High Fashion,” both also produced by Kloser and Anderfjärd. “Aquamarine” gained additional momentum after being remixed by Venezuelan artist Arca and re-released as “Arcamarine,” which Rae performed live for the first time during Arca’s Coachella 2025 set.

    Viral Coachella Moment and Album Tease

    Rae made headlines on April 13 with her surprise appearance during Arca’s set at Coachella, where the duo performed “Arcamarine” to a captivated crowd. At the end of her performance, Rae flashed her underwear to reveal the date “June 6,” a cheeky and viral nod to the upcoming release of her debut album.

    The bold move sparked a wave of online speculation and anticipation, fueling excitement around her full-length project, which has yet to have its full tracklist officially revealed.

    From Internet Star to Music Artist

    Before aligning with Columbia, Rae quietly released a five-track EP titled “AR” in 2023, which featured the single “Nothing On (But the Radio)” and a guest verse from Charli XCX. Though unofficial at first, the EP gained traction online, especially among fans of left-of-center pop.

    Rae later collaborated with Charli again on a remix of “Von Dutch,” one of the lead singles from Charli’s Grammy-winning 2024 album “Brat.” These collaborations have helped Rae bridge the gap between mainstream pop and more experimental pop subcultures, giving her broader credibility as an artist.

    What Fans Can Expect from Rae’s Debut Album

    Though details remain limited, Rae’s debut album is expected to blend early 2000s pop nostalgia with modern synth production, offering a mix of emotional ballads, dance-ready anthems, and introspective lyrics. Themes of heartbreak, family, identity, and emotional freedom are central to her recent releases, hinting at a deeply personal narrative arc for the project.

    Music industry insiders have hinted that Rae’s debut may include more collaborations with Arca, Charli XCX, and possibly other artists from the queer pop scene. Her unique blend of viral savvy, fashion-forward visuals, and raw lyricism positions her as one of pop’s most intriguing new voices.

    From Viral Videos to Radio Waves

    Addison Rae’s rise from TikTok star to charting music artist has been one of the more compelling transitions in recent pop culture history. With each release, Rae continues to redefine her image, focusing on creating authentic and emotionally resonant music that defies her influencer origins.

    With “Headphones On,” Rae not only cements her place in today’s pop landscape — she also signals what could be a long-lasting music career. Her full debut album drops June 6, and if her current streak is any indication, it may be one of the year’s most talked-about pop releases.