Lionel Richie blasts stars tiring of fans when they get ‘too famous’ amid Chappell Roan’s downfall: ‘It doesn’t work like that’

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Lionel Richie explained the importance of artists showing respect to their fans, especially after recent criticism directed at Chappell Roan for how she’s interacted with hers.

Singer Lionel Richie, age 76, recently talked with his son-in-law, Joel Madden, 47, on the VEEPS Artist Friendly podcast.

Richie advises those entering the entertainment industry to remember one crucial thing: being likable is essential. He says, ‘You need to enjoy interacting with people, because that’s a big part of this business.’

It’s funny how people change. Early in their careers, they crave attention and constantly seek recognition. But once they achieve fame, they often become intensely private and avoid the spotlight.

He realized he’d gotten what he wished for and challenged himself: “If you wanted success, why are you struggling with other people? You can’t achieve fame and wealth without interacting with them.” He explained that genuine connection is essential for achieving goals.

Joel Madden, husband of Nicole Richie, complimented his father-in-law, praising him for taking the time to connect with his fans. He said, ‘I notice you make an effort to greet people.’

He shared an example of Richie always being friendly, even in public places like restaurants. He noticed that Richie makes eye contact with people and acknowledges them with a greeting instead of looking away, which he found remarkable.

Richie mentioned that even his children have noticed him talking to people who haven’t initiated a conversation, and they’ve asked him about it.

They didn’t speak, they just waved at me. I could have simply waved back and continued walking, but instead, I said, “Hi, how are you?”

Madden further pressed Richie on why he is so attuned to his fans.

It’s a feeling I know well – being completely overlooked. It’s awful to realize someone is frightened of you, and you can see they’re trying to speak up, but they can’t. The worst thing I could do would be to pretend I don’t notice and just ignore them.

I have a saying,” he went on, “sometimes when you finally meet someone you’ve always admired, it’s disappointing.”

‘I made a promise to myself, I’m never going to be that. Never.’

Richie emphasized treating everyone with respect, no matter their job – from security guards to janitors and everyone in between.

He asked if Madden simply ignored the people he passed. Madden explained that he didn’t, comparing it to entering a building and greeting all the staff.

Richie noticed that the workers he interacts with often seem to expect him not to acknowledge them, likely because they’re used to meeting celebrities who don’t always engage. He clarified that he actually makes an effort to greet everyone and is happy to pose for photos with them.

Madden admitted it took him a while to get used to being recognized in public. He used to get annoyed when people stared, but he’s learned how to handle it over time.

The Good Charlotte singer realized people weren’t being rude, they were just too shy to greet him directly.

Madden praised Richie, sharing that people constantly tell him how highly regarded his father-in-law is. Whenever Madden travels – through airports, stays in hotels, or visits event venues – he hears comments like, ‘Your father-in-law was here, and he’s a truly great person.’

‘When [people] get that one story, they tell it for the rest of their life,’ he said.

Richie cautioned that the same held true in reverse – imagine a world without social media or any modern technology. He emphasized that gossip and reputation still spread quickly, stating bluntly, ‘That guy was a real jerk.’

I like to think of it like planting seeds. If you consistently create negativity or act poorly, that’s what you’ll eventually get in return. If you build a career on being difficult or uncooperative, it will ultimately come back to negatively affect you.

He suggested artists should always be kind and appreciative. A simple “thank you” or asking how someone is doing only takes a few seconds, but it can make a big difference.

Madden highlighted Richie’s ability to genuinely bring happiness to others, and Richie confirmed that his interactions feel natural and authentic.

This contrasts sharply with how Roan, age 28, has handled her rise to international fame. In a 2024 video, the ‘Pink Pony Club’ singer publicly criticized her fans, calling some of their behavior ‘weird’ and ‘creepy’.

There’s been significant criticism of Roan after footballer Jorginho reported that Roan’s bodyguard allegedly threatened his 11-year-old step-daughter, Ada, on Saturday. This happened after Ada saw the footballer at the same hotel in Brazil.

Oh my gosh, you won’t BELIEVE this! Apparently, Jorginho’s wife, Catherine Harding – you know, she has a daughter, Ada, with Jude Law – was saying this security guard was just awful to her and Ada! She said he totally went off on them, berated them even, just because Ada accidentally walked near Roan’s table. It was so aggressive, she was really upset! I can’t even imagine how scary that must have been for her and little Ada, honestly. It’s just ridiculous!

As a lifestyle expert, I’ve been following this situation closely, and Chappell maintains she had no knowledge of what happened. Her team has been very clear – she absolutely does not condone this kind of behavior towards her fans, and has a zero-tolerance policy for it.

Pascal Duvier, the 53-year-old security guard, has also stated he did not act for her.

Okay, so I’ve been following everything, and a friend of someone who works with her told the Daily Mail that they’re really worried. They basically said they just wish she’d start being a little kinder, like, before it’s too late. It’s just… heartbreaking to hear, honestly. I just want everyone to be happy and get along!

In a past video, Roan expressed her annoyance with how some fans have acted when they’ve seen her in public.

Roan shared that she’s finding it difficult to adjust to the attention she’s receiving, like when strangers ask for pictures or shout to her from their cars.

She asked viewers: ‘Would you shout at a stranger from your car? Would you bother someone in public?’

Imagine asking a stranger for a photo. Wouldn’t you understand if she didn’t want to take one, because she’s busy with her own life? Would you take it personally, or worse, start bothering her or her family by following them around?

Roan pointed out that while celebrities often experience erratic fan behavior, it doesn’t excuse or justify that behavior.

She stated, ‘We’re both just people caught up in this situation. Take a moment to consider that. I understand this kind of behavior sometimes comes with my profession, but that doesn’t excuse it, and it certainly doesn’t make it acceptable.’

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2026-03-27 03:41