Troye Sivan responds to backlash over lack of diversity in ‘Rush’ music video
Australian pop star Troye Sivan found himself at the center of a controversy surrounding his latest music video for the single Rush.
The video in question features a group of slim, chiseled men dancing shirtless alongside the singer. It received criticism for the lack of body diversity depicted. Troye has addressed the backlash and defended his artistic choices in a recent interview with Billboard.
Speaking candidly about it, Troye acknowledged the concerns raised by fans and critics.
"I definitely hear the critique," he stated. "To be honest, it just wasn't a thought we had. We obviously weren't saying, 'We want to have one specific type of person in the video.' We just made the video, and there wasn't a ton of thought put behind that."
The singer also expressed his disappointment with the hurtful comments directed at him and others involved in the production. He even shared his struggles with body image, making it clear that body shaming is a sensitive topic.
"I think that everyone's body is as beautiful as it is, including my own, and it just sucks to see people talking about other people's bodies," he explained.
RUSH is out everywhere now ⚡️ https://t.co/Ud98cGmTH4 pic.twitter.com/qjzbqYEsXX
— 👼🏼 (@troyesivan) July 13, 2023
Troye’s response to the backlash was met with support from fellow artist Charli XCX, who took to Twitter to defend him against the criticism. She lamented the expectations society places on artists in her tweet, highlighting the significance of allowing creative expression to exist outside of restrictive rules.
Charli wrote, "I feel like we live in a world where audiences feel like expression or art isn't worth their time unless it appeases every single unspoken requirement. What a boring discourse."
Despite the controversy surrounding the lack of body diversity, the music video has also received praise for its choreography and representation of LGBTQ+ culture. Directed by Gordon von Steiner, the visually captivating video showcases a pool party and energetic dance sequences, capturing the essence of the song.
Troye is expected to release his third studio album Something to Give Each Other on October 13. He recently starred in HBO's The Idol alongside The Weeknd, Lily Rose Depp, and BLACKPINK's Jennie.