[Vogue] BG Note: Singer and political activist Katy Perry recently did an interview for Vogue.
In the interview, she criticizes industry colleagues who stayed out of the political fray during the 2016 Presidential Election.
I don’t think you have to shout it from the rooftops,” she says of her political views—she performed at the Democratic National Convention and campaigned for Hillary Clinton during the 2016 presidential campaign—“but I think you have to stand for something, and if you’re not standing for anything,” she adds pointedly, perhaps aiming at some of her deliberately apolitical confreres, “you’re really just serving yourself, period, end of story.
‘California Gurls’ and fluffy stuff would be completely inauthentic to who I am now and what I’ve learned,” she adds. “I do believe we need a little escapism, but I think that it can’t all be that. If you have a voice you have a responsibility to use it now, more than ever.
Similar: Sports And Politics Don’t Mix
Apolitical Colleague/s:
[Optional] Do you think that the celebrities who keep their politics private during the election were smart or selfish?
Aristacats says
Taylor Swift
dizzygirl says
I suppose she’s talking about T Swift again..
I sort of wish they would just stick to their day jobs and let the journalists stick to theirs.
Estrogen says
Taylor Swift
aaaSeeK says
Beyonce, Taylor Swift, etc.
It is both smart and selfish, since the “fans” can turn on a person if they don’t like what they’re saying and we know that’s the only reason they’re keeping quiet (aside from a lack of understanding of the issues, perhaps). But I for one applaud anyone who’s willing to stand up and own their beliefs, whatever they may be, and don’t choose whose work I like or dislike based on anything but the work itself.
blinkandyoumight says
TAYLOR SWIFT
taylor only cares about taylor. big shock.
she should hope none of her closeted boyfriends come out all at once.
it’ll reveal her.
Aristacats says
[Optional]: I don’t think every celeb should say what their political views are. In fact, I think some should really refrain from speaking publicly about politics all together because it can make them look incredibly stupid.
But I understand why people were surprised when the ‘loud and proud girl power super feminist brand’ TS didn’t say anything during the 2016 election. I wasn’t suprised though. Her ‘super feminist girl squad power’ era was obviously a gimmick to increase her album…
sabrina325 says
Taylor Swift
afternoondelight says
She is obviously speaking of Taylor Swift
Completely wrong in using your status for political reasons. I respect those who are silent.
KatarinaJ says
Yes, if you have a platform you should use it, but it is up to an individual if this is how he/she wants to spend their time and energy. I wouldn’t tell someone to be an activist. It isn’t my place. That being said, how many of us would LOVE to be able to shed light on pet projects, charities, politics being THIS high profile. I just feel this was a phony attempt to sound deep.
amagod121 says
A political collegues: Taylor Swift, John Mayer too, perhaps?
Optional: Smart. I get where she’s coming from but unfortunately I think she was trying too hard to push people into voting for her choice. It felt over the top and annoying to me. Along the same line as Madonna. A celeb can say who they are voting for and why without becoming preachy and obnoxious.
Stefanie241805 says
Taylor Swift
I think its downright pathetic that ANYONE has to live in fear of expressing their political views/support for a candidate. I stopped discussing politics during the 2008 election due to a HUGE fight between my FB friends on my FB wall. Nothing wrong with different opinions but unfortunately, people weren’t able to have civil, respectful conversations. Sadly, I don’t blame the celeb in this item for not speaking up. He/she owes y ou nothing, Katy.
amagod121 says
* and smug and self-righteous.
Moeshablanche says
Taylor swift
weeniedog says
I think those that kept their political views to themselves were smart. I became so disgusted with a lot of Hollywood this past election. Not because their view was different than mine, but the blatant hypocrisy and hatred they spewed upon others. Hollywood / Democrats preach about being open, loving, and tolerant of others, but openly hate, berate and call those who vote a different party inexcusable names. I also feel that performing at the DNC is “shouting it from the rooftop.
4sixx2 says
I couldn’t care less about the political opinions of entertainers. Obviously all of HRC’s celebrity spokespersons did NOTHING to help her. I’m less likely to vote for someone who surrounded themselves with singers, actors, etc. You’re not that inspirational, nor are your OPINIONS important, Ms. Hudson.
weeniedog says
I would also like to say that I used to be a Democrat , and the first election I was eligible to vote in , I voted for Bill Clinton.
Realistic says
One of them is definitely Taylor Swift
IntolerantOldBat says
These people are paid to ENTERTAIN. If I want to hear about politics, I know where to go for that. If I want to forget about political issues awhile and be ENTERTAINED, then I used to know where to go for that, but it seems the music, sports, and movie industries are all up on soap boxes these days.
People like Katy Perry, Meryl Streep, Lena Dunham, et al need to shut their pie holes & do what they get paid to do. They are being selfish for preaching to everyone else.
ethelm says
I think celebrities should do what they believe is right for them as individuals. It’s ironic that some of the most politically vocal celebrities are the least educated and have the most air between their ears. There have been celebrities endorsing candidates forever, it’s just more evident now with social media pandering.
louisianalady says
Regardless of my beliefs I am immediately turned off by the famous using their celebrity to promote a political agenda.
They are not famous for their vast political knowledge.
Please continue to act, sing and dance for our entertainment but don’t expect me to think you are a political genius just because you have a microphone!
I have much more respect for the celebrities that don’t try to force an opinion down my throat!
molly123 says
So basically she is saying that everyone should be vocal and only agree with her point of view. I personality don’t care for celebrities getting political. Issues are way more complicated than what can be covered in a sound bite while promoting their shoe line, make up line, perfume, music, and everything else, while be “authentic” Its a one way conversation.
january13 says
Taylor Swift did not endorse a candidate only showed herself voting on Election Day & did not say for which candidate
Aurora says
Taylor Swift. I think celebrities should keep their politics to themselves. Most of them are idiots who don’t even have a high school diploma.
BunnieBoo says
They were smart. The ones showing up at whatever side rallies to grace us plebes with their wisdom were the self serving ones.
TeaDrinker says
Taylor Swift
Personally, if a celeb has a very unpopular opinion that could negatively affect their career, its best if they keep quiet. Just as I generally don’t go around announcing my political views at work in case my boss disagrees and files that away as a secret reason to not promote me or to even let me go.
Sometimes it’s better for celebs to keep mum but for those who want to be vocal about their views, that’s their choice too.
JaneDawson says
Apolitical Colleague/s: ex friends of hers Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez.
[Optional] SELFISH to the core. Two rich kids crying about stolen dancers and instagram fame while the people outside their gated community are getting their rights taken away. Geeeez.
WordyGerty says
The dig is at Taylor Swift.
I do not want to hear the political opinions of some high school dropout who just happens to be good at singing with autotune. Her music is mildly entertaining. Any political views she has are irrelevant.
Brantal826 says
They are smart. The people who take heed in the politics of celebrities are dumb.
PriveNom says
Taylor Swift
tell me more says
Taylor Swift and I agree she should be apolitical. Celebrities cannot relate to the regular Jane/John Doe. Stick to mindless entertainment
LeonieSK says
Taylor Swift obviously.
bxckground says
Taylor Swift and everyone in her “squad”
I think it depends. Sometimes keeping quiet is better but when it comes to a chaotic election like the one in 2016, having 2 complete opposites running for office, its nice that some celebrities arent scared to speak up even if they face blacklash for doing so.
I also dont understand when people get mad about celebrities talking about politics. Free speech is a right for everyone, and that includes celebrities too, wether we like it or not.
heartcouture says
Taylor Swift. Idk who else.
Optional: Smart. No one cares what you have to say. You are paid to sing or act, not to pretend like you have any idea what you’re talking about. Sit down.
LeonieSK says
I can see why a celebrity wouldn’t want to pick sides in politics (you don’t want to lose half of your fanbase) but when one of the sides/candidates clearly goes against every values or ideas you pretend to stand for (feminism, kindness to all, etc.), I think you should speak out and make your voice heard.
hvp5ss says
I am not one of those people who think celebrities should stay out of politics. Not at all.
However, I think Katy is a little full of herself if she thinks she held much sway in the election. Sounds like she’s saying the results would have been different with more celebrities on board. Oh honey. You don’t get it at all.
Oh, obviously she’s talking about Taylor Swift.
aaaBrit says
She should stick to singing. No one cares about her political views and ramblings…..move along the bus luvie
lovefifteen says
Clearly Taylor Swift.
I actually think it’s fine for celebrities to keep their political opinions to themselves.
kimmukwest says
I’m sure it’s a jab at Swifty.
I think it’s smart to keep your political views private for some. To many celebs that are really vocal don’t bother to fully educate themselves
eas12397 says
Taylor Swift
To me its completely up to them. No one should feel forced in to speaking for them
beachchick218 says
Do I care what this chucklehead thinks? Hell no.
celebiddy says
Taylor swift for starters
Screw you katy perry – just because you are famous doesn’t mean your political opinions matter more then anyone elses. I get that its great to have a platform to raise awareness on issues, but when it comes to partisan politics no one should vote based on what their favorite pop tart tells them to
jonty30 says
Oh shut up, stupid girl.
The rich like high income taxes because they keep their revenues light on the income part and have it shifted in other ways, something middle income earners and liw income earners cannot do.
It’s effectively a tax on the ability to save for those who are not rich.
Odds are, she’s been well advised by her tax accountant and she just wants to sound caring.
MinnieMe says
Apolitical Colleague/s: Any of the conservative ones. They want to keep working.
I’m not basing my vote on what Katy Perry says. That’s for sure. A political celebrity is nothing to me. Most of them have no idea of the issues.
gilmourh says
Taylor Swift
Yes. She has a great influence over her fans (as does any other celebrity), she shouldn’t be able to use her celebrity to sway the minds of citizens. She is delusional to think she will be as affected by the choice of president as the general public will be. Fact is, her voice doesn’t matter because she isn’t in the ‘real world’
TeacherKat says
Is this another dig at Taylor Swift?
I think it was a smart move for those that did stay quiet; both sides could be pretty horrible to those that they disagreed with this past election. I know people that stopped supporting artists after this election based in their political beliefs. One super liberal friend of mine was mad at Susan Sarandon for speaking out about Bernie and refuses to see anything she is in now. So yes, smart.
ninanicole says
Taylor Swift. Smart and selfish bc she just wants to keep a wide audience. But she’s always going on about feminism but kept almost completely silent through everything, and that was discouraging bc she could have used her voice but didn’t.
2BEAUCOUP says
Ms. Perry is a very slow,dim witted,self aggrandizing moron.
Her talent is either nonexistent or miniscule at best.
She’s best @ scat with John M.
Ms. Perry is a close to middle age woman with big implants and the mind of a prepubescent child.
Anyone that gives any credence to anything that concerns her or her views is much worse off than she is.
idfelix says
Taylor Swift
Smokey says
Optional: Selfish. No one cares what privileged celebrities’ political views are. I laughed when a certain young one actually cried after the election. “He’s not my president!” Then move to Canada like you said you were going to. *Rant over*
WordyGerty says
Yeah, I just double checked. KP dropped out of school in 9th grade. Why in the world does anybody care what a 9th grade dropout thinks about diddly?
luthien3000 says
Katy Perry needs to keep her mouth shut. Does she even know what she’s talking about? Is she educated?
wendybar says
Katie WHO??
wendybar says
Taylor was smart to stay out of Politics. I don’t want to hear their opinions, I just want to hear them sing. SHUT UP and SING!!
sassygurl1987 says
Taylor Swift shade by Katy. Tay-tay would never because she’d be afraid she might lose her fans.
pj33558 says
Smart.
MOST celebs have no clue and only speak to what they pick up on the Twitter, SnapChat, Instagram feeds and that is NOT how most of the world works.
Celebs should stick to what they know – acting (mostly), or singing or whatever talent it is they have.
Let people who have graduated high school and/or college, who’ve lived lives, who’ve survived really hard times (not a bad album or a bad dance type bad times) speak up.
I boycotted Code Black because of their actors’ public…
PomegranatePam says
I can’t believe she still thinks celebrity endorsements help. I’ve never seen (in my lifetime) the media so unanimously against a candidate, and it didn’t work. If anything, it gave Trump the “underdog-running-for-real-Americans” edge.
Side note: She’s always reminded me of a college kid away from home for the first time. Very passionate about things she learned yesterday.
StaciB says
Taylor Swift she’s talking about
I think people should keep those things private, please. That’s probably why Hilary lost.
Caz1310 says
haven’t politicians realised the public don’t falll for celebrity endorsements anymore?
Haven’t celebrities realised we don’t care or believe what they spout? Stick to your day jobs.
High Steppa says
Unless a celeb want to alienate their fans who hold different views, I think they are wise to keep their politics private. I actually think Taylor S. (the one Katy is referring to) made the smarter choice by keeping her views to herself. The more I know about Taylor vs. Katy, the more it’s obvious who is more savvy. I think in five years Katy will be in rehab and will be struggling for a hit but Taylor will still be going strong.
whoisthatguy says
Is she coming for Taylor Swift?
spaceship says
Katy Perry and those like her, just won’t let it go will they? Face it, Hillary lost, and Donald Trump won! Deal with it and move on!!!!!
kelno19 says
Gee, I didn’t know who to vote for until Katy Perry took a stand.
emster says
Taylor Swift is the only main celebrity I can think that stayed out of the whole thing.
Smart. They’re alienating half their fans when they take a stance whether they realize it or not.
plumplum says
I guess Taylor Swift .
I don’t care about the celebrities ‘s politic choice. If The celebrities are vocal,good for them.If they are private ,good for them
MrFahrenheit says
Well Taylor Swift. I think Taylor was smart to stay out of politics, but I kind of like that Katy Perry is using it against her.
sunshine702 says
Taylor Swift
Distancing half your fans to drone on about your political opinion is stupid.
kriskris says
If that is how she wants to approach politics/elections, then fine! However, it’s none of her business if people choose to keep on the down low about their political beliefs!
sneezy says
Apolitical – doesn’t matter, Katy Perry makes everything about Katy Perry.
Optional – celebrites are in their right to share or not share an opinion, it’s their choice. If they do choose to speak, they sure as hell better be knowledgeable and ready to deal with the backlash and financial hit from people who don’t agree and will stop supporting them.
nonpartisanpress says
tswift
Baileygirl says
Smart. You go political you alienate half of your fan base. Ask the Dixie Chicks if anyone can remember who they were.
spunkfunker says
Taylor Swift
I personally don’t care. I don’t get political advice from musicians, and I don’t get musical advice from politicians simple as that.
CelebrityGirl says
Apolitical Colleague/s: She’s so obviously talking about Taylor Swift.
[Optional] Do you think that the celebrities who keep their politics private during the election were smart or selfish? This was a nasty election. Things are still heated. I don’t blame anyone for not wanting to subject themselves to the inevitable backlash they would have received (regardless of political stance).
firefly nights says
They just simply had good manners. You don’t discuss politics, religion, or abortion in public.
ceweesie says
Smart, really do these celebs think they have some special enlightenment?
lilmurmaid91 says
Taylor Swift
Raoul Duke says
Oh shut your snide remark mouth Katy Perry
Most likely this was not so subtle shade at Swift, which please just let that go ALREADY. If a celebrities chooses to endorse a candidate or remain mum that is up to them, it’s their choice. Just because they are a celebrity doesn’t mean they are obligated to share their views. What Katy is suggesting is ridiculous and makes her look even dumber than she is.
4girls4 says
Smart
And Katy was paid by the campaign for her support.
redstilettos says
Smart. The average person does not care about a spoiled celebrity’s politics. Their egos are outrageous to even think that most people care.
aaapfish says
Very smart, not selfish.
I’m a big believe in “shut up and sing.” I really don’t care about the opinions of self-important and under-educated wealthy Hollywood types think. Just because you played an intellectual in a movie doesn’t mean you can be confused with one.
Blkgoddess says
Apolitical Colleague: Taylor Swift.
I think it’s smart for celebs to keep their politics private. It’s just good business. Entertainment and politics are two different monsters and should be kept separate.
Blkgoddess says
Oh and since when did Katy Perry become a “political activist”? What makes her that–going to a couple of anti-Trump protests? Woman, please pull your head out of your own *, snort another line (actually no don’t do that) and go make some decent music.
insecurepizza says
Taylor Swift
Yes I would’ve appreciated her speaking up, but she doesn’t owe anyone her political views. She has shown public support for feminism and LGBT rights on multiple occasions, and it’s been suggested that she indicated through her choice of clothing on the day of the election (a shoulderless turtleneck jumper, similar to a dress worn by Clinton in 1993 that Taylor’s friend Lena Dunham paid homage to in a November 5th Instagram post) which candidate she intended to vote for.
moses1684 says
News Flash celeb’s: We don’t buy your music or watch your movies for your political opinions, we do it to be entertained and taken away from all that for a few hours. We don’t want to hear you spew hatred, use fowl language and encourage people to be idiots in the streets. Having you smugly look down on hard working people is repulsive. We show our displeasure with dollars. We no longer watch your movies, buy your music, etc. And its showing, Amy, Scarlett, etc. You reap what you sow.
prettybird025 says
Taylor “I care more about the money that come from conservatives than making a real difference” Swift.
RebellionTruth says
One of them is Britney Spears
Smart. I personally don’t want a star telling me who I should vote for. I can’t stand the political fanaticism displeases me, even if it comes from a public figure as an actor or a singer. Plus, all the political things during the USA election were TOO much. It was exhausting. And I’m not even from the USA…
melrose71 says
Probably Taylor Swift. I know some people think celebrities should keep their mouths shut, but everyone in this country has a voice and an opinion whether you keep it private or shout it from the rooftops. Personally, I think do or don’t do whatever helps you sleep at night. Don’t berate people for not doing what you think they should be doing. People have to pick their own battles.
JHntr113 says
Taylor Swift, who is by far and away smarter than most of her peers.
scout727 says
Probably Taylor Swift
I think it’s smart and respectful. No one likes having someone’s beliefs shoved down their throats. Katy used to be fun and somewhat relatable, now she’s just annoying AF.
The whole Hollywood thing of painting democrats as saints and republicans as the bad guys is just dumb.
Taylor, or whoever this is, is smart (and respectful) for not alienating half of their fan base.
GretaGuesses says
Katy is probably better a dig in at Taylor Swift. I don’t recall her getting politically involved.
The celebrities who kept their politics private were smart. I cannot even imagine a sane voter saying “Gee, I had better see what Katy Perry has to say so I will know how to vote.”
I am totally turned off by entertainers being so politically involved. I agree with the adage “Just shut up and sing.”
lazyninja says
Apolitical Colleague: Taylor Swift
Optional: I think celebs who keep their opinions to themselves are smart. I care about as much about their opinions as they care about mine.
Catfink says
I think they were selfish.
I mean, when it is ok to speak out and be politically active? When the guy you chose has messed up so much that it’s too late? The fact is, Swift is all about her image, and I don’t trust her to care about my needs or anyone elses. Look at what this president is doing to people. I respect more celebs who are outspoken and are not afraid of towing the line and ruffling feathers. At least they’re genuine, and you gotta respect that.
kittymyers says
I don’t know who she’s talking, and I really don’t care. I prefer celebrities to ‘shut up and sing’ (act, write, whatever). I figure most of the industry people are lefties anyway, and I’d rather concentrate on their talents instead of their politics. Once they begin with politics, they run the risk of angering a chunk of their paying customers.
Lollipopkid says
Apolitical Colleague/s: Taylor Swift
[Optional] Do you think that the celebrities who keep their politics private during the election were smart or selfish? smart
Reggie5561 says
Tay Tay
AdriaticStatic says
Taylor swift.
I think everyone has a right to privacy. If “colleague” didn’t want to disclose what their political position was/is, then that’s their business. Period.
frigga says
I think celebrities who kept their political views private were sensible. You are famous because you are a singer or actor or some vacuous reality tv airhead – nobody gives any more credence to what you think than they do some crazy person on the bus! The celebrities who did go on and on and on about their political views are the ones who were just doing it for publicity – like Katy for her new song.
luvsdrama says
taylor swift who i think voted for hillary but wasn’t vocal about it cause most of her half fan base is middle American Republicans
bandida says
Taylor swift
Katy is hardly a political activist….
Tuanie says
Some of the best music has been Protest music and political. Unfortunately if it’s not done correctly, it comes across as preachy and heavy-handed.
To each their own I guess.
pricey524 says
gotta love those limousine liberals….