Washington: Lily Allen has publicly apologized for her earlier comments criticizing Katy Perry’s participation in the Blue Origin space flight, where the US singer joined five other women on a mission to the edge of space.
During a recent episode of her BBC podcast Miss Me, Allen acknowledged that she had unfairly targeted Perry, admitting that her remarks were rooted in her own internalized misogyny.
Allen had initially described the flight as “so out of touch” and questioned its relevance, particularly amidst global economic struggles. She had pointed out the disconnect between the luxury of space tourism and the hardships faced by many. The Blue Origin flight, which marked the first all-female crew to travel to space since 1963, was an event celebrated by many, but also faced ridicule, especially for Perry, who was mocked after singing “What a Wonderful World” and showcasing her setlist for an upcoming tour mid-flight.
Reflecting on her past comments, Allen expressed regret over singling out Perry, acknowledging that she wasn’t the only celebrity involved in the space venture. Allen also recognized that adding to the online criticism was unnecessary, and apologized, stating that she would have felt hurt if it had been her facing similar public ridicule.
Perry’s participation in the flight, along with figures like TV presenter Gayle King and Bezos's fiancée Lauren Sánchez, was initially seen as a significant moment for women in space. However, the mission became the subject of social media backlash, with fast-food chain Wendy’s mocking Perry, only to later offer an apology and praise her talents.
Despite the ridicule, Gayle King defended the mission, expressing disappointment in the criticism and encouraging detractors to experience space travel themselves before making judgment. The flight, intended as a milestone in commercial space travel, has sparked mixed reactions, with some lauding it as a step forward for women in space, while others deem it an extravagant, tone-deaf spectacle.
Lily Allen's apology highlights the complexities of public figures engaging in cultural commentary and the sensitivity required when participating in high-profile discussions.
