Betty Who Apologizes for "Harmful" Lesbian Comments: "I Will Do Better"

Betty Who addresses criticism over their remarks about lesbians, promising growth and understanding within the queer community.

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When Words Stir the Waters of Identity

If you've ever navigated the complex seas of sexuality and gender identity, you know how delicate and personal these journeys are. Betty Who, the Australian pop singer known for their catchy tunes and candid personality, recently found themselves in a storm after comments about lesbians sparked backlash from parts of the queer community. Let’s unpack what happened, what was said, and how Betty Who responded with a heartfelt apology.

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The Podcast Conversation That Sparked Debate

During a guest appearance on the Made It Out podcast, Betty Who opened up about their personal journey navigating sexuality and relationships. Identifying as bisexual and non-binary, they shared reflections on how their identity has shifted over time, especially in the context of their marriage to Zak Cassar.

The episode, titled “Being Queer In A Straight Relationship”, touched on public figures like JoJo Siwa and Fletcher, who recently announced relationships with men after previously being seen as queer icons. Betty expressed empathy for women who might feel erased or misrepresented when these shifts happen.

“I have so much space and love for those women who are probably going through it right now,” Betty said. “I think it’s hard when you become representative of something to other people, and then you change or you are just following your heart, and then that means other people feel that they are not represented anymore. The pressure of that is so immense.”

They also addressed how queerness often comes with its own set of labels or “alphabet mafia,” and the pressure to fit into a tidy category.

Later, Betty referred to comments by Reneé Rapp, who declared she would never date a man. Betty offered a compassionate but controversial perspective:

“Reneé Rapp is like, ‘You’ll never catch me dating a man,’... Like, ‘Go off, queen. I love that for you!’ But I also hold space for her in 10 years if she goes, ‘Oops, I met the love of my life and it’s this man, I didn’t mean to.’ It’s like, that’s okay!”

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Community Backlash: When Support Feels Like Misrepresentation

Not everyone in the queer community took kindly to these comments. Many saw Betty Who’s remarks as reinforcing a harmful stereotype — the idea that lesbianism might be just a phase or something that can be “changed” by meeting the right man. This trope has long been a source of frustration and pain within LGBTQ+ circles.

Pop musician King Princess weighed in via a TikTok video, indirectly addressing Betty Who's comments without naming them explicitly but echoing the controversy. They challenged the focus on “heteronormative relationships” when LGBTQ+ rights are under threat.

“Date a man, it’s not a big deal,” King Princess said. “But why are you on a podcast talking about it? It’s not an interesting narrative. We live in a country where our rights are being stripped from us every day, and you think it’s important to get on a podcast and talk about how hard it is to be in a heteronormative relationship? Diva!”

Watch King Princess's full TikTok here

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Betty Who’s Response: Reflection and Apology

Recognizing the impact of their words, Betty Who took to Instagram Stories to address the criticism. Their message was sincere and introspective:

“In recent days, I’ve taken time to sit with the conversation around my gender and sexuality. I recognize that the language I used poorly articulated my experience and unintentionally reinforced ideas that were harmful or dismissive, particularly toward the lesbian community. That was never my intention, and I’m truly sorry.”

Betty emphasized that their comments were based solely on their personal journey, and they failed to consider the broad spectrum of others' experiences. They also acknowledged the privilege inherent in their perspective.

“I went into the interview to discuss my own journey – specifically, how I figured out how to identify myself and how I ultimately landed on non-binary and bisexual, both assignments that live somewhere in-between,” they explained. “I understand there is so much nuance in this conversation, and in other people’s lived experiences, that my comments did not reflect. I also recognize that I’m coming from a place of privilege, and I never meant to contribute to prejudice against the community.”

The statement wrapped up with a promise that resonated with many fans:

“The LGBTQ+ community is my home; it’s where I came alive, found my people, and learned more about love, acceptance, and tolerance on a deeper human level. I will do better.”

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A Snapshot of Betty Who’s Career and Influence

Beyond the controversy, Betty Who continues to be a beloved figure in pop culture. Last year, they joined an exciting roster of musicians announced for the reboot of the kids' TV show Yo Gabba Gabba!. Sharing the stage with luminaries like Flea, Anderson .Paak, Diplo, Kurt Vile, and Thundercat, Betty Who brings their signature energy to a program that mixes fun, music, and social skills for children.

The original Yo Gabba Gabba! series, which aired from 2007 on Nick Jr., was famous for featuring a cavalcade of musical guests like Mos Def, The Killers, Weezer, MGMT, and Solange. Its episodes tackled themes from “Eat” and “Dance” to “Friends” and “Careful,” making learning joyful and engaging.

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Wrapping It Up: The Complexity of Identity and Growth

Navigating the landscape of queer identity is no easy feat, especially under the public eye. Betty Who’s recent experience underscores how important it is to approach these conversations with care, empathy, and respect for the diversity of lived experiences. Their apology and vow to do better highlight the ongoing evolution of understanding within the community—and remind us all that growth often comes from listening, reflecting, and admitting when we’ve missed the mark.

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FAQ

• What caused Betty Who’s recent controversy?
  Betty Who made comments on a podcast about lesbians and bisexuality that some perceived as suggesting lesbianism could be a phase or changed by dating men, which led to backlash.
• How did Betty Who respond to the criticism?
  They issued a heartfelt apology, acknowledging their words unintentionally reinforced harmful stereotypes and committed to doing better.
• Who else spoke out about the controversy?
  Pop musician King Princess criticized the focus on dating men and highlighted the broader struggles facing the LGBTQ+ community.
• What is Betty Who’s sexual and gender identity?
  Betty Who identifies as bisexual and non-binary.
• What other projects is Betty Who involved in?
  Betty Who is part of the musical lineup for the Yo Gabba Gabba! reboot, alongside several notable musicians.

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