Robbie Williams Says He’s “Bruce Wayne in Los Angeles and Batman Everywhere Else”

Robbie Williams reveals his unique approach to fame, embracing anonymity in the US while owning his star power elsewhere.

Bruce Wayne by Day, Batman by Night: Robbie’s Take on Fame

If you’ve ever wondered how Robbie Williams balances his enormous UK success with a more low-key American profile, you’re not alone. The iconic British pop star, gearing up for his 13th studio album BRITPOP, recently opened up about his life in the music spotlight—and how he navigates fame with a superhero alter ego twist.

In a candid chat on BBC Radio 2’s The Scott Mills Breakfast Show, Robbie dropped a gem: he chooses to be "Bruce Wayne in Los Angeles" but "Batman everywhere else." It’s a brilliant metaphor, capturing his desire for privacy in the US while still embracing his public persona worldwide.

The Rollercoaster Ride of Breaking America

Robbie’s journey in the US hasn’t been the blockbuster hit some expected. Despite his global stardom, his singles never soared above number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100, with Angels being his highest-charting track. Meanwhile, back home, he’s a legend—tied with The Beatles for 15 solo number one albums and boasting seven UK number one singles.

He reflects on this disparity with heart and honesty:

“I gave up on it very quickly. I got to America and I was promoting an album, and I was ill, I was mentally ill, and I was an addict and an alcoholic and everything was overwhelming, and I was at the top of this pile at the time, that I couldn’t manage and I couldn’t handle.”

Robbie’s raw admission reminds us that fame isn’t always glamorous behind the curtain. Struggling with mental health and addiction while trying to conquer a vast and unfamiliar market? That’s a challenge few outsiders fully grasp.

Choosing Anonymity Over Global Fame

After facing these challenges, Robbie made a deliberate choice: to enjoy anonymity in the US, where he’s less known, while maintaining his superstar status in the UK and beyond. “I chose to be Bruce Wayne in Los Angeles and Batman everywhere else,” he said, adding poignantly, “I might not be here if I hadn’t.”

This dual identity has allowed him to protect his mental well-being while still thriving creatively and professionally—a savvy survival tactic in the brutal entertainment industry.

BRITPOP: A New Chapter

Robbie’s upcoming album, BRITPOP, scheduled for release on February 6, marks an exciting return to his roots. The album’s launch was delayed to avoid competing with Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl, a move that shows his respect for timing in the industry. He joked to his intimate London audience at Dingwalls,

“We’re all pretending it’s not about Taylor Swift, but it fucking is... I want 16 Number One albums.”

His singles from BRITPOP are already turning heads, especially Rocket, featuring the legendary Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath on guitar—a rock ‘n’ roll power move that adds a gritty edge to his Britpop revival.

Here’s a glimpse of the BRITPOP singles:

• Rocket (feat. Tony Iommi)
• Spies
• Human
• Pretty Face

Robbie also treated fans to a full album performance, offering a rare, intimate experience—a reminder of how deeply connected he remains to his music and audience.

A Bittersweet Spotlight: The Better Man Biopic

Though his music career is thriving, Robbie’s 2024 biopic Better Man faced a tough opening weekend in the US, grossing just $580,000. It’s a stark contrast to his UK chart dominance but reflects the challenges of crossing cultural and market divides.

The film’s performance doesn’t diminish his impact; instead, it highlights the complexities of his career trajectory, especially across different continents.

Looking Ahead: Tour and Live Shows

To celebrate BRITPOP, Robbie is hitting the road with a series of small-scale shows in February across Glasgow, Liverpool, London, and Wolverhampton. Fans can look forward to full performances of his debut album Life Thru A Lens alongside his new material. These intimate gigs promise to be memorable moments for long-time followers and new fans alike.

“I chose to be Bruce Wayne in Los Angeles and Batman everywhere else. I might not be here if I hadn’t.” — Robbie Williams

FAQ

• What does Robbie Williams mean by being “Bruce Wayne in Los Angeles and Batman everywhere else”?
  He’s describing how he maintains privacy and anonymity in Los Angeles (Bruce Wayne) while being publicly famous and active (Batman) in other parts of the world.
• Why did Robbie delay the release of BRITPOP?
  To avoid competing with Taylor Swift’s album release and other major releases, ensuring his album would get the attention it deserves.
• Has Robbie ever had a number one single in the US?
  No, Robbie’s highest-charting US single is Angels, which peaked at number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100.
• Who collaborated with Robbie on his single ‘Rocket’?
  Tony Iommi, the legendary guitarist from Black Sabbath, played on the track.
• Where can I see Robbie Williams live soon?
  He’s playing four intimate shows in February across Glasgow, Liverpool, London, and Wolverhampton, performing his debut album and BRITPOP.

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