Katy Perry Hits Back: Addressing Online Hate, Space Tourism Backlash, and ‘Can’t Dance’ Claims

Katy Perry is no stranger to the spotlight, but recently, much of that attention has been less than flattering. From her Blue Origin space flight to claims about her dancing abilities, the pop star has found herself the target of online criticism. But Perry is fighting back, addressing the negativity head-on during her Lifetimes Tour and online.

During a recent show in Chicago, Perry directly addressed the online hate. "Well, I thought I was the most hated person on the internet," she quipped, reacting to enthusiastic cheers from the audience. This comment seems to stem from the backlash she received following her participation in Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin flight in April. The flight, which also included Gayle King and Lauren Sánchez, was met with criticism from some who viewed it as a frivolous display of wealth while the world faces more pressing issues.

The space flight experience itself, where Perry even sang a few lines of "What a Wonderful World" in zero gravity, only seemed to fuel the fire. Upon landing, Perry kissed the ground, a gesture that further amplified the online commentary.

Perry took to Instagram to address the criticism, stating, "Please know I am ok, I have done a lot work around knowing who I am, what is real and what is important to me. My therapist said something years ago that has been a game changer, 'no one can make you believe something about yourself that you don't already believe about yourself'." She added that the internet can be "a dumping ground for unhinged and unhealed," indicating her awareness of the source of much of the negativity.

Experts suggest that the vitriol directed at Perry isn't necessarily about her as an individual, but rather what she represents. Psychotherapist Stephanie Sarkis notes that it's often about resentment towards wealth disparity. "She's living a life that most of us are not going to live, so it's difficult for people when they are just trying to make ends meet...to see someone that is living a life that is unattainable for the majority of us."

Adding to the online noise, Perry has also responded to critics who claim she “can't dance.” During her Lifetimes tour, she reportedly did jumping jacks onstage, sarcastically “proving them wrong.” However, some online commenters were not convinced, with one writing, “I think she just proved their point.”

Perry's latest interactions with the public spark an important question: how much is too much when it comes to online criticism of celebrities? Is it fair to target individuals for perceived extravagance, or is there a line that shouldn't be crossed? Katy Perry seems determined to rise above the noise and focus on her tour and future endeavors. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.

• Blue Origin
• Katy Perry
• Lifetimes Tour