Singer and former Disney star Sabrina Carpenter is facing criticism for a controversial gesture during her recent concert in Los Angeles. Known for shedding her Disney image, Sabrina performed a simulated act on stage that has left fans divided, with some defending her artistic freedom while others question her influence as a role model for younger fans.
What Happened During the Concert
The incident occurred during the final show of Sabrina’s Short n’ Sweet tour on Monday night. While performing, Sabrina knelt on stage, held the microphone in front of her, and grabbed her hair, mimicking an intimate act. She then leaned toward the mic and pretended to gag, asking the crowd, “Have you ever tried this one?!”
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i’m obsessed with sabrina carpenter pic.twitter.com/gG7Iyoj6pe
— ؘ (@brinasdaily) November 19, 2024
While Sabrina has a history of incorporating bold and provocative moves into her performances, many fans felt this particular act crossed the line. Criticism poured in on social media, with one Instagram user commenting, “She’s trying to fit in way too much.” Another added, “This looks so inappropriate.”
Fans Defend
Despite the backlash, many fans defended Sabrina, emphasizing her right to express herself on stage. One supporter stated, “She doesn’t wanna be a role model for young girls. She wants to be herself. Leave her be.” Another argued that Sabrina, 25, is no longer confined to her Disney persona and that her music reflects her maturity.
“As far as kids being in the crowd…this was a parent fail. What else do you expect? Should have listened to the lyrics prior,” a fan remarked, suggesting parents should exercise discretion when bringing children to her concerts.
Despite the defense, others continued to express concern, particularly regarding Sabrina’s influence on her younger audience. A tweet pointed out, “People defending her need to realize she knows her audiences are full of kids. She was literally a Disney Channel actress, and I’m pretty sure that’s why she has a music career in the first place. If she doesn’t want kids going to her concerts, she should make that heard. Kids are easily impressionable.”
The concert drew several Hollywood stars, including Beyoncé, who attended with her daughter, Blue Ivy, further amplifying concerns about the appropriateness of the performance for audiences that included children.
Sabrina’s Professional Career
Sabrina Carpenter first rose to fame as a teenager, starring in the Disney Channel series Girl Meets World. Alongside her acting career, she debuted her music with a softer, family-friendly vibe, releasing her first album, Eyes Wide Open, at 16. However, starting in 2021, Sabrina transitioned into a more provocative style of music, firmly moving away from her Disney roots.
This shift has highlighted Sabrina’s journey as an artist, though it has also sparked debates about her responsibilities toward the younger demographic that initially supported her career.