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Photo courtesy of NPR

If you’ve been scrolling on any social media platform these last couple of weeks, chances are you’ve seen the chaos and controversy that popstar Chappell Roan’s two most recent TikToks have caused. In two videos with up to 16.5 million views, Chappell attempts to set boundaries with fans who have been following her while demanding pictures and hugs despite her obvious discomfort.

“I don’t care that abuse and harassment, stalking, whatever, is a normal thing to do to people who are famous or a little famous,” Chappell said. “It’s weird how people think that you know a person because you see them online and you listen to the art they make … I’m allowed to say no to creepy behavior, okay?”

This sparked backlash from fans and non-fans alike, who argue that asking your favorite artist for a hug or a picture doesn’t qualify as “creepy” behavior. There have also been numerous viral posts on X accusing Chappell of being overly sensitive or in the wrong profession.

However, others are arguing that Chappell should be able to go out in public without strangers feeling entitled to pictures, autographs and hugs. In response to her recent videos, she has also received support from other artists, such as Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande and Jewel.

If you aren’t familiar with Chappell Roan, this past year she has been suddenly shot into mainstream stardom after 10 years in the industry. Her catchy hits “Good Luck, Babe!” and “HOT TO GO!” combined with her unique on-stage outfits have gained her millions of listeners and a dedicated fanbase.

Over the summer she had one of the biggest Lollapalooza sets in history — with up to 110,000 people in the audience. In just this past year Chappell has accumulated 38 million monthly listeners on Spotify. Her growth as an artist has been nothing short of sudden and hectic.

Personally, I think that Chappell Roan doesn’t owe you anything. Celebrity culture has become parasocial and unsafe — just think of Princess Diana, Britney Spears and Christina Grimmie. Enjoying someone’s art doesn’t give you an all-exclusive pass to their personal space and life. In an ever-growing technological world that is obsessed with social media, setting boundaries is important, and someone’s comfort zone shouldn’t become a worldwide debate.

While I agree that it isn’t inherently harmful to request a photo with someone that you’re a fan of, it’s important to respect their decision. After all, we all have good days and bad days, and nobody wants to be photographed on their morning coffee run.

What do you think about Chappell’s recent statements regarding boundaries with fans? Do celebrities owe their fans some kind of souvenir, or should we all learn how to appreciate our idols from a distance?