On April 14, Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin completed its 11th human flight from Launch Site One in West Texas, with an all-female crew aboard. The passengers included Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sanchez, singer Katy Perry, CBS’s Gayle King, producer Kerianne Flynn, former NASA scientist Aisha Bowe, and bioastronautics expert Amanda Nguyen. Despite the historic nature of the flight, it was Perry who became the focal point of a storm of online criticism. Many questioned the necessity of the space trip, with some voicing frustration over the perceived waste of resources.
As the debate raged, the singer found herself at the center of discussions, with people questioning her qualifications to join the mission. After keeping quiet for over two weeks, amidst launching her “Play” tour, Perry finally addressed the ongoing backlash.
In a heartfelt message to her fans, Perry thanked them for their unwavering support, particularly those who funded a billboard in New York to promote her tour. The note, shared on a fan page, revealed her personal reflection on the situation. Perry spoke openly about her growth through therapy, quoting her therapist’s words that resonated with her: “no one can make you believe something about yourself that you don’t already believe about yourself.” She shared how this perspective helped her cope with the online criticism, which she likened to being treated as a “human piñata.” Despite the negativity, Perry expressed gratitude, sending “grace and love” to those who had attacked her.
Perry ended her message by acknowledging her journey, describing it as a “battered and bruised adventure,” and emphasized her determination to continue seeking the light amidst the challenges.
Though the public has been relentless, Perry’s response shows a level of resilience and grace as she moves forward, embracing both the support of her fans and the harshness of public scrutiny.
