Mariah Carey has never shied away from her larger-than-life persona, and in her latest Harper’s Bazaar UK cover story, she leans into the legend with dazzling self-awareness and plenty of sparkle. When asked which female divas she admires, Carey didn’t hesitate: “I’m going to have to go with me!”
Photo: Alexi Lubomirski/Harper’s Bazaar UK
The Diva of All Divas
After more than three decades in the spotlight, Carey has perfected the art of being a diva, not as a flaw, but as a lifestyle. From sky-high stilettos to silk robes and her love of being lit from the correct angle, Carey knows exactly who she is.
“It’s part of my job,” she told Harper’s Bazaar when asked about her glam persona. “What’s the point of a disguise? Just get up, get dressed, go out. If I don’t want to be seen, I’ll stay home.”
Photo: Alexi Lubomirski/Harper’s Bazaar UK
She’s not just playing a part, she’s created the part. A five-time Grammy Award winner with 19 Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles, Carey has helped define pop stardom, and she’s done it unapologetically on her own terms.
Aging? Mariah Doesn’t Know Her
Carey, 56, has long sidestepped the topic of aging with a wink and a high note. In fact, she insists it doesn’t apply to her.
“I don’t allow it – it just doesn’t happen. I don’t know time,” she said in the interview. “I don’t know numbers. I do not acknowledge time – I have a new song that starts with that line…”
Photo: Alexi Lubomirski/Harper’s Bazaar UK
Carey teased that one of her upcoming songs delves into the topic of aging, or rather, her refusal to accept it. Dressed in a chic black mini and later a tailored suit for the Bazaar shoot, the icon looked as radiant as ever, giving further credibility to her anti-aging philosophy.
Her timelessness isn’t just attitude, it’s maintenance. From avoiding cigarettes to only being photographed from her preferred angle, Carey has long preached the power of lighting, beauty sleep, and self-control.
Mom First, Pop Star Forever
Carey also shared insight into her life as a mother to 14-year-old twins Monroe and Moroccan, her children with ex-husband Nick Cannon. “How do I say this? They spend time with him, and they have a good time; they spend time with me, and they have a good time,” she said thoughtfully. “I want to make sure I’m always fair about the situation because it’s tough to grow up with divorced parents.”
Photo: Alexi Lubomirski/Harper’s Bazaar UK
As for her rumored relationship with musician Anderson .Paak, Carey played it coy, offering only, “I’m a romantic.”
She did name-drop some of today’s top pop girls: Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tate McRae, but only because they’re on her daughter’s playlist. “I like to keep up,” she said casually.
Still Sparkling, Still Unmatched
Whether she’s dodging the concept of time or declaring herself the one true diva, Mariah Carey continues to rewrite the rules of fame with a glitter pen. Her latest interview doesn’t just reinforce her place in the pantheon of pop, it proves she built the stage.
After all, in a world full of divas, there’s only one Mariah.
Renee Rapp’s chaotic honesty was on full display in her recent Vanity Fair lie detector test, where no topic was off-limits, not even a faux feud with fellow pop princess Sabrina Carpenter. The Mean Girls star gave fans a candid, curse-laden glimpse into her unfiltered thoughts on Broadway burnout, gay group chats, and the scariest fandom in the world: bisexual teens.
“Maxed Out” on Mean Girls
When asked if she’d ever return to her iconic role as Regina George should Sabrina Carpenter reprise her part in Mean Girls, Rapp didn’t hesitate. “I don’t know that I’m doing a threepeat,” she said, noting she’s “maxed out” on Mean Girls after playing the role in both the stage and film adaptations.
Though she clarified that Carpenter had only just begun her Broadway run before the pandemic shuttered theaters—“It was more than likely rather inconvenient [for her]”—Rapp was quick to make the moment her own. When asked, tongue-in-cheek, whether she valued Carpenter’s opinion, Rapp deadpanned, “I do not value the opinion of Sabrina Carpenter.”
Reneé Rapp talks about Sabrina Carpenter in a recent interview! 🤍
— Sabrina Carpenter Daily (@SCdailyupdates) July 15, 2025
The polygraph called that a lie. But the internet called it iconic.
Fistfights and Funeral Solos
The interview spiraled into gloriously unserious territory as Rapp confessed to fighting a seven-year-old outside a Lakers game. The kid allegedly called her a slur, and she retaliated while hungover. “Outta line. I should’ve held back,” she admitted, though the polygraph confirmed she was telling the truth. “Do I think I won that fight? No. I fear he’ll be using it more.”
📹 | @reneerapp tells the story of the time she fought a 7 year old outside of a Lakers game during her @VanityFair Lie Detector Test
— ★ Reneé Rapp Source ★ (@ReneeRappSource) July 15, 2025
She also revealed she got her performance start by singing at funerals, because, as she put it, “I just wanted to make it about myself.” Her favorite? “Amazing Grace” at her great-grandmother’s funeral. “She couldn’t comment on it ’cause she was dead.”
Broadway Burnout and Big Dreams
Rapp got real about her complicated relationship with Broadway, explaining she struggled as a “depressed teenager” during her time on stage. “I don’t like doing the same thing every day,” she said, noting she’d need to “re-fall in love with it” before returning to the grind.
But that doesn’t mean she’s slowing down, she still plans to EGOT by 40. “Is 40 old?” the interviewer asked. “If you act annoying, then hell yeah,” Rapp replied.
Fear of Fans and Frank Ocean’s Release Schedule
Perhaps the most relatable moment? Her fear of her own fandom. “Have you ever seen a rabid bunch of white 16-year-old bisexuals unhappy?” she asked. “With all the love in the world, y’all scare the shit out of me.”
She also admitted she’s not rushing to release new music, despite fan pressure. “Somebody tells me to release something and it’s gonna wait another six months no matter who it is,” she said. “Y’all are gonna have to wait for that shit longer.”
Asked whether she’s modeled her release strategy on Frank Ocean, she laughed: “No, but it damn sure seems like it.”
Judd Is Gay and That’s a Compliment
In classic Renee fashion, the interview wrapped with her declaring her lie detector test operator, Judd, is gay. “It’s a compliment. I like gay people,” she said, before inviting him out with her friend group.
She also gushed about her girlfriend, Towa Bird, and their group chat, fittingly named “Gay.” The couple’s hard launch at the Vanity Fair Oscars party was no PR stunt. “She’s so pretty and I love watching people fawn over her,” Rapp said. “You gotta come. Sorry, sister.”
Whether she’s trolling Sabrina, dragging Boston, or complimenting LeBron James’ “pretty little face,” Renee Rapp proves time and time again: the girl is not media trained, and we’re better for it.
Stay tuned for her upcoming music, which you’ll get when she damn well feels like it.
Joe Locke and Dylan Mulvaney might’ve just stolen the spotlight at Sabrina Carpenter’s concert in London this weekend. The Heartstopperstar, 21, and beloved TikTok creator, 28, were spotted at BST Hyde Park on Saturday, July 5.
Photos show the duo dancing the night away, having an absolute blast — and yes, I’m wildly jealous. While they’ve never hidden their close friendship, they recently shared a set of sweet Instagram pics, cheekily captioned, “first couples shoot.”
Locke even added a playful “hard launch” in the comments—prompting Modern Family’s Jesse Tyler Ferguson to chime in: “You two… just playing the media like a harp.” And honestly? Guilty as charged—we’re eating it up.
But in case you’re wondering who these two stars are, here’s a quick refresher:
Joe Locke shot to fame as Charlie Spring in Netflix’s Heartstopper, and has since joined the Marvel universe in Agatha All Along and made his Broadway debut in Sweeney Todd. Proudly outspoken, Locke uses his platform to advocate for queer representation and challenge typecasting in the industry.
Dylan Mulvaney is a powerhouse in her own right. A theater-trained actress turned viral content creator, she skyrocketed to fame with her TikTok series Days of Girlhood, documenting her transition with humor and heart. She’s interviewed President Biden, starred in a Fringe musical, dropped her own single, and even penned a memoir. Basically? She’s booked, busy, and beloved.
One thing’s for sure: these two are absolutely thriving — and we love to see it.
Pop stardom isn’t just about catchy hooks and glittery outfits, just ask Sabrina Carpenter, who’s used her chart-topping momentum to power something even sweeter: change. The “Espresso” singer has officially raised over $1 million for LGBTQ+ rights, youth mental health initiatives, and animal welfare programs through the Sabrina Carpenter Fund, launched in partnership with nonprofit PLUS1.
And she did it all before even finishing her coffee.
A Tour with a Cause
Carpenter kicked off the charitable initiative during her Short n’ Sweet tour, embedding philanthropy directly into her performances. With each ticket sold, a portion went toward grassroots organizations making real-world impact. It’s a model that PLUS1 specializes in, and Carpenter’s fund has now become their fastest-growing artist-led program to date.
In less than a year, she helped support a lineup of organizations that includes UK-based suicide prevention group PAPYRUS, global LGBTQ+ advocacy nonprofit Rainbow Railroad, and the Jed Foundation, which provides mental health resources for teens and young adults.
“I launched the fund to support the causes that mean the most to me, mental health, animal welfare, and LGBTQ+ rights,” Carpenter told Forbes. “I’m so grateful that I get to use my platform to amplify the work of incredible organizations like the Jed Foundation, Papyrus and Rainbow Railroad.”
According to PLUS1 CEO Marika Anthony-Shaw, Carpenter isn’t just writing checks, she’s redefining what celebrity philanthropy looks like. “Sabrina is setting a new standard,” said Anthony-Shaw. “She’s woven social impact into her career in a way that’s meaningful and lasting.”
Whether it’s the LGBTQ National Help Center’s crisis-prevention work or MusiCares’ mental health resources for musicians, Carpenter’s fund isn’t just backing popular causes, it’s lifting up those on the margins.
And yes, animals got love too. The fund also supports Best Friends Animal Society, which works to find forever homes for rescue pets across the country.
A Pride Message From the Heart
As Pride Month wrapped, Carpenter shared a message directly to her LGBTQ+ fans: “You’ve always shown up for me and I’m committed to showing up for you. Thank you for always uplifting me, making me laugh and showing how special it is to be authentically yourself.”
In a sea of rainbow capitalism, Carpenter’s commitment feels refreshingly genuine, and it’s clearly resonating with fans.
Sabrina Carpenter shares a message for her LGBTQ+ fans! 🏳️🌈🤍
“As Pride comes to a close, I want to send so much love to my LGBTQ+ fans. You’ve always shown up for me and I’m committed to showing up for you. Thank you for always uplifting me, making me laugh and showing so many… pic.twitter.com/jbXvs4da7N
— Sabrina Carpenter Daily (@SCdailyupdates) June 30, 2025
Naturally, fans wasted no time showering Sabrina with praise. On X (formerly Twitter), one user wrote, “This is the kind of iconic artist move that deserves way more praise!” Another posted, “Pop stardom shines brightest when it lifts others. Sabrina didn’t just top charts-she built a movement with heart, glitter, and purpose.”
Pop stardom shines brightest when it lifts others. Sabrina didn’t just top charts-she built a movement with heart, glitter, and purpose. 🌟
With over $1 million raised and counting, Sabrina Carpenter is proving that being pop’s rising darling doesn’t mean you have to stay sweet, you can also be sharp, smart, and socially engaged.
Sabrina Carpenter is putting her foot on the gas, and her stiletto on our necks. Less than a year after dominating charts and streaming playlists with her Grammy-winningShort n’ Sweet, the pop star is back with another full-length album titled Man’s Best Friend, arriving August 29.
And if the title alone didn’t raise eyebrows, the cover art certainly did. Shared via Instagram on Wednesday (June 11), the provocative image shows Carpenter on all fours in stilettos, dressed in a black mini, with a man gripping a handful of her hair. The second slide zooms in on a powder-blue dog collar, engraved with the album title, cheeky, stylish, and unmistakably Sabrina.
“i can’t wait for it to be yours x,” she wrote in her caption, immediately sending fans into an online frenzy.
Man’s Best Friend follows the breakout success of Short n’ Sweet, which debuted in August 2024 and marked a turning point in Carpenter’s career. With top 10 singles like “Espresso” and “Taste,” and the runaway success of “Please Please Please,” her first Hot 100 No. 1, the album launched her into superstardom. It also brought her two Grammys and her first Billboard 200 No. 1, where it spent four weeks at the top.
While Short n’ Sweet dripped in caramel flirtiness and radio-friendly melodies, Man’s Best Friend appears to be edgier, possibly darker, definitely bolder.
“Manchild” Ushers in a Sassier Sound
Leading the pack is “Manchild,” the first single off the new record. A whip-smart, country-inflected bop with Carpenter’s signature mix of sweetness and sarcasm, the song calls out immature men in a way only she can, with a wink and a mic drop.
Co-written with frequent collaborators Jack Antonoff and Amy Allen, the track debuted last week and is already clawing its way toward the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Spotify streams are soaring, and early forecasts suggest a top-tier chart entry.
The full 12-song tracklist hasn’t been shared yet, but fans can safely assume Man’s Best Friend will keep the same trio of Carpenter, Antonoff, and Allen at its creative core.
Writing From the Retreat
Hints about new music first surfaced in February, when Carpenter told Vogue she had been quietly working on new material. “I start every year just trying to go away and write,” she said. “Because I feel like I have a lot to say at the end of a year. I’m just kind of tucked away right now. It’s half writing and half relaxation, if that’s something I can even accomplish.”
With Man’s Best Friend, it looks like the creative getaway was a success, even if the album’s visuals suggest she’s not taking things lying down. Or maybe she is, but only on her terms.
Fans React: “She’s Not Playing Around”
Unsurprisingly, Carpenter’s fanbase went wild over the announcement. “Let’s bfr she ate with the cover.’” one fan posted on X. Another quipped, “The way i’m kinda into this new era for Sabrina.”
Memes, thirst tweets, and debates about the deeper meaning of the dog collar cover are already circulating. Some called the image “pop kink-coded,” while others are already predicting another Grammy sweep.
One fan summed it up best: “SABRINA CARPENTER SUMMER HAS BECOME A YEARLY TRADITION.”
Man’s Best Friend drops August 29 via Island Records. Pre-orders are available now on Carpenter’s website. With an arena tour already extending through Thanksgiving and “Manchild” climbing fast, Sabrina is showing no signs of slowing down.
Call it a victory lap, but with some sugar and spice.
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.
chappell roan was the apple girl for charli xcx’s set at primavera sound tonight! 💚 pic.twitter.com/sG9Z2MllqU
— best of chappell roan (@bestofchappell) June 6, 2025
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 chappellroan was the apple girl tonight,” one fan posted.
Another wrote, “ChappellRoan 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.”
— | Neasa Nic Thaidhg | (@neasamontague) June 6, 2025
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.
Pop singer Sabrina Carpenter’s prominent integration into the popular online video game “Fortnite” has ignited a passionate response from players, with her fans celebrating her arrival and a vocal minority of gamers expressing their displeasure. Carpenter is currently headlining the latest iteration of “Fortnite Festival,” a performance-based game mode within “Fortnite,” and the update has introduced a range of Sabrina-themed customization options for players’ avatars.
These new features allow players to personalize their in-game characters to resemble Carpenter and utilize emotes and dances set to some of her popular songs. This integration has rapidly gained traction within the “Fortnite” community, with Carpenter’s fans enthusiastically embracing the opportunity to express their fandom within the virtual world. Social media platforms have been flooded with videos showcasing players mimicking Carpenter’s signature “Juno” poses from her tour, engaging in virtual dance-offs featuring legions of Sabrina-inspired avatars, and generally populating the game with digital representations of the singer.
The widespread adoption of the Sabrina Carpenter customizations has been met with humor and excitement by many players. One user on social media expressed their delight with a playful lament: “they never should’ve added sabrina to fortnite LMFAOOO.” Another player highlighted a sense of solidarity among fans, stating, “the refusal to kill another sabrina carpenter girlie on fortnite.”
However, this enthusiastic reception has been counterbalanced by a wave of negative reactions from some segments of the “Fortnite” player base, particularly those who appear resistant to the inclusion of pop culture figures they perceive as outside the game’s core demographic. This sentiment has manifested in online complaints and expressions of frustration over the perceived “invasion” of the game by Carpenter’s fanbase.
One social media account, which has repeatedly posted critical remarks, asserted that “Sabrina Carpenter has RUINED Fortnite.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among some gamers about the perceived dilution of the game’s original identity and the influx of players primarily drawn by the celebrity crossover rather than the game itself.
FORTNITE FACT:
Sabrina Carpenter received a large wave of backlash and hate when she was introduced to Fortnite Festival.
This is a clever reference to how the majority of Fortnite’s fanbase are sexist incels. pic.twitter.com/iMhFhJypWZ
Conversely, many observers have found the intense negative reactions to be disproportionate and even comical. One user commented on the phenomenon, writing, “Grown men absolutely seething over Sabrina Carpenter having a skin in Fortnite is so strange.” Another player offered a more pointed interpretation of the backlash, sarcastically suggesting, “FORTNITE FACT: Sabrina Carpenter received a large wave of backlash and hate when she was introduced to Fortnite Festival. This is a clever reference to how the majority of Fortnite’s fanbase are sexist incels.”
Despite the outcry from some quarters, a significant portion of the “Fortnite” community remains determined to enjoy the new content and celebrate Carpenter’s presence in the game. Numerous players have shared their positive experiences and humorous interactions with the Sabrina Carpenter features. One user proudly declared, “just killed a man in fortnite as sabrina carpenter,” while another expressed a renewed interest in the game, stating, “i reinstalled Fortnite for the first time in 5 years yall dont understand how much i love Sabrina Carpenter.”
The sentiment of embracing Carpenter’s inclusion is further echoed by players who have readily adopted her avatar. One user simply stated, “just loaded in the lobby with my Sabrina Carpenter skin in fortnite.” Some have even framed her arrival as a welcome disruption to established norms within the gaming community. One user playfully remarked, “good. i hope she ruins everything men love,” and another quipped, “absolutely fucking brilliant that from now on, if any man mentions Fortnite, I can ask if he means the Sabrina Carpenter game.”
The dynamic surrounding Sabrina Carpenter’s integration into “Fortnite” highlights the ongoing intersection of mainstream pop culture and the gaming world. While collaborations between celebrities and video games are not new, they often elicit strong reactions from dedicated gaming communities, particularly when they introduce elements that are perceived as deviating from the game’s traditional themes or target audience.
The intensity of the backlash in this instance underscores the passionate and often protective nature of gaming fandom. For some players, “Fortnite” represents a specific virtual space with established norms and identities, and the influx of a large fanbase drawn from outside that core group can be seen as disruptive.
However, the significant positive response from Carpenter’s fans and other players who appreciate the new content demonstrates the potential for such crossovers to broaden a game’s appeal and introduce new audiences. The “Fortnite Festival” mode, by its very nature, is designed to integrate musical artists and performances into the game, making Carpenter’s headlining role a logical extension of this feature.
Ultimately, the “Sabrina Carpenter in Fortnite” phenomenon illustrates the diverse and often conflicting interests within the gaming community. While some players may lament the introduction of pop star elements, others enthusiastically embrace the opportunity for new forms of self-expression and social interaction within the game’s virtual environment. The digital landscape of “Fortnite” has, for the time being, become a stage for both celebration and contention as Carpenter’s influence continues to resonate with its players.
Grammy-winning pop artist Sabrina Carpenter is at the center of attention after debuting a provocative dance move dubbed the “new Juno position for the lesbians” during a recent stop on her “Short n’ Sweet” tour in Stockholm. The now-viral choreography, a stylized and unapologetic stage moment seemingly mimicking oral sex, has elicited a wide range of reactions, from enthusiastic approval to sharp condemnation, igniting a fiery debate across social media and beyond.
Carpenter’s track “Juno,” a buoyant, mid-tempo song exploring themes of intense, sometimes chaotic love, has become a key performance piece on her current tour. However, the singer’s interpretation of the song took an unexpected turn, leaving many in the audience and online with dropped jaws and racing fingers. Dressed in a glittering, thigh-high sequined outfit, Carpenter confidently executed a low, thrusting motion on stage, which she playfully christened the “new Juno position.” This deliberate and suggestive choreography has quickly become a talking point, dominating online discussions and news feeds.
Sabrina Carpenter debuting a new Juno position at night two of #StockholmShortnSweet
— Sabrina Carpenter Tour Info 💋 (@SabrinaTourInfo) April 4, 2025
For those unfamiliar with the viral footage, Carpenter’s performance involves a deliberate forward movement, coupled with a knowing and sultry grin. This gesture has been widely interpreted as a clear imitation of a sexual act. While a significant portion of her fanbase erupted in cheers and online praise, a vocal contingent has expressed shock and disapproval, leading to a stark divide in reactions.
Internet Erupts In Reactions with Mixed Opinions
The internet has responded to Carpenter’s “Juno position” with a spectrum of opinions, ranging from humorous observations to outright outrage. “Why is Sabrina Carpenter doing cunnilingus cosplay on tour?” one user posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Another quipped, referencing the Elliot Page film, “That’s not the Juno I remember from the indie classic.”
Conservative media outlets have been particularly critical, labeling the performance as “lewd,” “inappropriate,” and a “slap in the face to her younger fans.” This criticism highlights an ongoing societal tension regarding female artists openly expressing their sexuality on stage in the public eye.
Conversely, a significant segment of online users, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community and among her younger fanbase, has rallied in support of Carpenter. “Sabrina’s giving the girls what they want. If you’re mad about it, log off!” one TikTok commenter wrote. Another declared her “a sex-positive legend reclaiming the stage for sapphics everywhere.” This outpouring of support underscores a desire for greater representation and open expression of sexuality in mainstream pop culture.
Carpenter’s Stance: Unapologetic Expression
Carpenter herself has largely refrained from directly addressing the controversy surrounding the “Juno position,” a silence that many interpret as a deliberate act of artistic confidence. In a moment of what some fans are calling “diva mastery,” she has allowed her performance to speak for itself. However, during a recent show, she did reportedly joke, “I’ve created a new position for the lesbians, you’re welcome,” a remark that sent her audience into enthusiastic cheers and further cemented the moment’s notoriety online.
In past interviews, Carpenter has hinted at her intention to incorporate theatricality and camp aesthetics into her stage shows, as well as a desire to celebrate intimacy in its various forms. These statements suggest a clear artistic vision that prioritizes bold expression over public comfort.
Embracing the “Diva” Persona
Ultimately, Sabrina Carpenter’s “Juno position” has served as a potent reminder that she is no longer seeking universal approval. Her current artistic phase embraces a bolder, more provocative persona aimed at entertaining and challenging her audience, while simultaneously rewriting the conventional narrative for young female pop stars. Whether the “Juno position” is viewed as a stroke of camp brilliance or an act of public indecency, one outcome is undeniable: Sabrina Carpenter has firmly captured the world’s attention.
Singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes joined the chorus of online reactions to Bad Bunny’s recent Calvin Klein ad campaign, offering a simple Spanish compliment that resonated with fans. Mendes’ comment, “Guapo,” meaning “handsome,” appeared under the Puerto Rican rapper’s Instagram photos, which have generated millions of likes and a flurry of responses.
Bad Bunny’s images, part of a new ad campaign for the underwear brand, quickly went viral, prompting a range of reactions from fans and fellow celebrities. The post, photographed by Mario Sorrenti, has garnered over 4.4 million likes on Instagram, with comments ranging from simple approval to more explicit expressions of admiration.
Mendes’ comment, while brief, added to the online buzz surrounding the campaign. The official MTV Instagram account also acknowledged the photos, commenting, “I tapped way more than twice.”
The exchange comes amidst public interest in Mendes’ personal life, including his past relationships with singers Camila Cabello and Sabrina Carpenter. In October, Mendes addressed his audience during a performance at Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre, discussing the public’s speculation about his sexuality.
“There’s just been this thing about my sexuality and people talking about it for so long,” Mendes said at the time. “I think it’s kind of silly because I think sexuality is such a beautifully complex thing, and it’s so hard to just put into boxes.”
He continued, “It always felt like such an intrusion on something very personal to me, something that I was figuring out in myself, something I had yet to discover and still have yet to discover.”
Mendes’ comment on Bad Bunny’s photo comes as both artists have released new music. Mendes’ self titled album, “Shawn,” reached No. 26 on the Billboard 200 albums chart in November. Bad Bunny’s latest release, “Debí Tirar Más Fotos,” debuted at the top of the charts in January.
The online interaction between Mendes and Bad Bunny highlights the power of social media in amplifying celebrity moments and generating widespread attention. The brief Spanish compliment from Mendes added to the viral nature of Bad Bunny’s campaign, demonstrating the reach and impact of celebrity endorsements and online interactions.
With the 2025 Grammy Awards just around the corner, excitement is building as the Recording Academy has announced the first wave of performers set to take the stage. The annual ceremony, which will take place on Sunday, February 2, will shine a spotlight on some of the biggest names in music, with a particular focus on the growing influence of queer artists across genres.
Leading the nominations this year is Beyoncé, who has earned an impressive 11 nods, making her the most-nominated artist of the year. However, it’s not just Beyoncé making waves; the 2025 Grammys are shaping up to be a landmark year for queer representation, with artists such as Chappell Roan, Doechii, Troye Sivan, Billie Eilish, Willow, Clairo, Kaytranada, Kehlani, and Anitta all receiving nominations. Notably, Chappell Roan and Billie Eilish are both up for the prestigious categories of Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year.
In addition to the nominations, several of these queer artists will take center stage during the ceremony, performing their nominated tracks and celebrating the diverse range of voices in today’s music industry. The Grammys will also include a special segment dedicated to raising funds for Los Angeles wildfire relief, adding a philanthropic element to the star-studded event.
Here’s a closer look at some of the performers already announced for the 2025 Grammys:
Chappell Roan Chappell Roan, the Oklahoma-born pop singer-songwriter, is having a breakout year. The artist, who has received six nominations, is up for Best New Artist, as well as Album, Record, and Song of the Year. Her single “Good Luck, Babe!” is in the running for three awards, and Roan is widely anticipated to perform the track during the ceremony. With her unique blend of pop, country, and indie influences, Roan is poised to make a major statement on the Grammy stage.
Doechii Rising star Doechii is a first-time nominee at the 2025 Grammys. With four nominations under her belt, including Best New Artist, Doechii has quickly become a name to watch. The Florida-born rapper and singer is known for her dynamic sound and bold visuals, and her recent single “Denial Is a River” has earned significant attention. Fans are hoping to see a live performance of the track during the ceremony, which would mark a major moment in her rapidly growing career.
Doechii at the 2023 BET Awards Arrivals at the Microsoft Theater on June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles, CA
Billie Eilish Billie Eilish continues her Grammy dominance, having earned seven nominations this year, bringing her career total to an impressive 32 nods, with nine wins to her name. Among her nominations are Record and Song of the Year for “Birds of a Feather,” one of the standout tracks from her latest album. Eilish has been known to surprise audiences with unexpected collaborations, and it’s possible that she could join forces with Charli XCX for a performance of their nominated song “Guess,” which has also earned recognition in several categories.
Charli XCX Charli XCX is another major contender at the 2025 Grammys, with eight nominations for her album Brat. The British pop icon has been a force in experimental pop for years, and this year’s nominations highlight her versatility. Her tracks “360,” “Von Dutch,” “Guess,” and “Apple” are all up for awards, and it’s expected that Charli XCX will bring her signature avant-garde style to the Grammy stage during a highly anticipated performance.
Charli XCX attends The Fashion Awards 2023 at The Royal Albert Hall in London, England.
Sabrina Carpenter Sabrina Carpenter, a first-time nominee at this year’s Grammys, has earned six nominations for her songs “Espresso” and “Please Please Please” from her album Short n’ Sweet. Known for her versatile vocal ability and her transition from Disney star to mainstream pop artist, Carpenter is a rising star in the industry. Fans are eager to see what she’ll bring to the Grammy stage, especially with such a strong showing in this year’s nominations.
Raye British singer-songwriter Raye has earned her spot among the six nominees for Best New Artist. The artist, who has worked with global superstars like Beyoncé and David Guetta, is gaining recognition for her unique sound that blends pop, R&B, and electronic influences. Raye’s performance at the 2025 Grammys is expected to showcase her talent and further solidify her place in the music industry.
Shakira Latin music icon Shakira is back at the Grammys with seven nominations, including Best Latin Pop Album for her album Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran. Known for her global appeal and infectious rhythms, Shakira has long been a fixture at the Grammys, having won three times in the past. This year’s nominations highlight her continued relevance in the industry, and her performance is sure to be a highlight of the evening.
Benson Boone Rising pop artist Benson Boone is up for Best New Artist at the 2025 Grammys. The acrobatic singer, known for his Freddie Mercury-inspired performances, has gained a dedicated following with his powerful vocals and engaging stage presence. Boone’s Grammy performance could be his big moment to capture the attention of a global audience.
Teddy Swims Another artist vying for Best New Artist is Teddy Swims, a soulful singer-songwriter known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Swims has gained recognition for his unique blend of soul, R&B, and pop influences, and his Grammy performance will likely showcase his ability to move audiences with his emotional delivery.
Looking Ahead The 2025 Grammys promise to be a historic night, with a diverse range of queer artists leading the charge in categories like Best New Artist, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year. These performers not only represent a new era in the music industry but also demonstrate the growing visibility of LGBTQ+ voices in mainstream entertainment.
As the Grammys approach, fans are eagerly awaiting more performer announcements, and with so many queer artists nominated, the 2025 ceremony is poised to be a night of celebration and empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community.
