Miley Cyrus isn’t only causing waves with her music but also stepping forward to defend other fellow artists. In her recent Harper’s Bazaar interview, full support was thrown behind rising pop star Chappell Roan. Roan has been dealing with her fair share of online drama. The backlash comes from Roan setting some boundaries with fans that didn’t sit well with not everyone on social media. Miley was more than happy to defend Chappell and beg the public for a little lenience with their criticism.
“It’s tough stepping into the spotlight, especially with social media amplifying every little thing,”
Miley said, well aware from experience.
Chappell, who has very publicly discussed her bipolar II disorder, has been having a tough go of it as of late. It has surely been a load from managing her mental health to handling tour safety and authenticity with music. Through it all, she has pleasantly remained firm on what personal boundaries mean to her, even when continual backlash has faced her. Miley’s appreciation couldn’t have come when Chappell needed it most.
If there was anybody who could understand the pressure being put on her because she was always in the public eye, it would be Miley. Unlike most celebrities today, Miley has completely stepped away from social media. She doesn’t even have her Instagram password anymore. The choice she says, has been a game-changer for her mental health.
“I don’t need to live online to live my life,”
she explained. For Chappell and scores of young artists trying to keep pace with the relentless demands of social media, that’s sage advice.
Miley has also been vocal about how her experiences under the brightness of the spotlight shape her view.
“I know what it’s like to feel watched, judged, and misunderstood,”
she shared. She’s been there and done that, and she’s determined to be a voice of support for others going through it.
“Sometimes, you just need someone to tell you it is okay to take a step back and breathe.”
Of course, the pressures of fame aren’t new, but Miley made a point to show just how much harder it is now with the internet ever-present. The fans want access, the critics are noisier than ever, and the expectations are incredibly high. Set boundaries, advised Miley. Don’t let the industry- or the internet- dictate your happiness. It’s a lesson she’s learned firsthand, and it’s clear she’s hoping others, like Chappell, will take it to heart.
But all is not solemn discussion these days for Miley. She’s gearing up for the release of her new visual album, Something Beautiful, which she’s working on with her boyfriend, Maxx Morando. It feels like a labor of love, casting Miley’s signature style off in some new creative direction. And sure, it’s just another reminder that she’s still breaking the rules and doing things her way.
