Sabrina Carpenter’s eleventh hour switch up for divisive pro-trans VMAs performance: ‘She knew she was taking a risk’

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After her performance at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards, Sabrina Carpenter was facing some challenges instead of enjoying a positive response.

During her performance of the explicit song “Tears” on Sunday evening, the petite pop star expressed support for trans rights, which sparked controversy among fans. Some critics accused her of exploiting or fetishizing the trans community, while others expressed concern about the increasing politicization they perceived in the awards show.

26-year-old carpenter found himself on stage with renowned drag queens like Honey Balenciaga, Symone, Dashaun Wesley, and Richie Shazam. Many of these performers were waving signs that conveyed messages such as “We trust in trans community,” “Dolls, dolls, dolls,” “Support drag,” “Defend transgender rights,” and “If you harbor hatred, you’ll never find love.

Towards the end of the evening, the Manchild singer expressed gratitude to her “on-stage queens” while accepting the accolade for Outstanding Album.

Currently, a source close to the situation has shared with The Daily Mail that Carpenter’s rendition deviated significantly from the initial idea, and they described her decision to alter it so drastically as a notable risk, especially considering the changes were made mere days before the event at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.

The carpenter decided to honor and acknowledge the transgender community by altering her initial plan, according to our source. Originally, her act was intended as a humorous spin on Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 film.

In my commitment to delivering an outstanding performance of Tears, I found myself needing to adjust all the costumes and stage designs at the last possible moment. Remarkably, we managed this swiftly as we had some concepts prepared earlier for her upcoming tour.

Sabrina conversed with individuals from the transgender community prior to the show, discovering that several of them expressed a concern: they often feel objectified for adult entertainment purposes, yet struggle to be accepted within mainstream society.

She intends to honor individuals often mistreated or overlooked by society, recognizing that her actions could potentially be daring.

Although Carpenter attempted to honor trans women in his work, not everyone was pleased and expressed their discontent on social media. One comment read, ‘There seems to be a strange objectification element in much of the “protect the dolls” narrative,’ while some labeled it as ‘superficial activism’ or ‘performance.’

Another disgruntled spectator expressed their frustration by saying, ‘If celebrities truly showed concern, they’d be contributing funds and aiding communities, rather than waving cardboard props on stage.’

As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to address a recent event that has deeply saddened many in our community. Last month, a tragic incident occurred at a Catholic school in Minneapolis, where an individual named Robin Westman took innocent lives, claiming two precious young ones. This is undeniably a heart-wrenching reminder of the importance we all hold in promoting peace, understanding, and safety in our schools and communities.

After hearing about a school shooting in Minnesota involving a transgender individual, they expressed something that seemed thoughtless to me, but I’m not sure if I’m misinterpreting it.

As a devoted enthusiast, I’ve noticed some criticism towards the long-standing awards show, claiming that it has transformed into a ‘campaign rally.’ However, throughout its history, it has consistently presented numerous politically charged moments.

Fans of the singer from the Espresso band remained loyal to her and commended her performance, particularly the dance segment during the rain shower.

The carpenter adjusted the number of dancers, ensuring there were more transgender performers among them. One of these performers carried a “Protect the Dolls” sign, symbolically referring to the still-unsolved murder case of transgender entertainer Venus Xtravaganza.

Her performance may have proved divisive, but the singer cleared up when it came to the awards.

In a surprising turn of events, Short N Sweet emerged victorious, outshining musical heavyweights like Lady Gaga, Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, and Morgan Wallen to claim the title of Best Album.

In her acceptance speech, Carpenter spoke about “discrimination” and “negativity,” remarks that some perceived as a criticism directed towards President Donald Trump, who’s administration has notably affected the transgender community in a substantial way.

She noted that our world is frequently marked by criticism, discrimination, and negativity. However, being a part of something that usually brings joy, laughter, happiness, and a sense of empowerment – making one feel like they can conquer the world – is truly a blessing she cherishes deeply.

Thank you all so much! And a special thank you goes out to my supporters who have always stood by me. Your unwavering support means the world to me.

Although Short N Sweet received praise from both critics and enthusiasts, her seventh studio album, titled Man’s Best Friend, has stirred up quite a bit of controversy.

The carpenter had earlier expressed that the record was not intended for those who easily get shocked or outraged, and established this tone back in June when she unveiled the album cover. On the cover, she appears in a submissive posture, kneeling in a black mini dress, with her hair being pulled by an unidentified man dressed in a suit.

Some folks found the picture disrespectful towards women, but others felt the playful pop star was merely making a joke. After facing a huge uproar, Carpenter has now unveiled three new album covers that are more widely accepted by the public.

She’s not new to facing controversy, as she has been criticized for her subtle innuendos and provocative dance performances during her tours. Her transformation from the innocent Disney persona to a more mature image is evident.

Earlier this year, she addressed the criticism about her stage outfits, stating to critics, “Stay away from the performance,” while emphasizing that her revealing costumes allow her to feel comfortable on stage.

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2025-09-08 22:19