Grimes Stands Up for Selena Gomez Amid Online Criticism
Singer and producer Grimes has spoken out in defense of Selena Gomez, condemning the wave of negative online comments aimed at the actress’s appearance in her latest music video, In The Dark.
The Only Murders in the Building star released the highly anticipated video on October 23, but within hours, it became the subject of harsh criticism from social media users dissecting her looks.
In response, Grimes took to X (formerly Twitter) on October 25, calling the comments “disturbing” and urging people to stop spreading cruelty online.
Grimes Praises Selena’s Beauty and Criticizes Online Hate
Grimes shared a direct message of support for Gomez, writing that she looked “extremely beautiful” in the video and that the negative posts were misrepresenting how she actually appeared.
“I’ve been on the internet for like 48 hours, and despite minor benefits, I might have to leave,” Grimes posted. “Watched this Selena Gomez video — besides a few weird derp shots people were able to clip and misrepresent, she looks extremely beautiful, probably one of the most beautiful girls.”
The 37-year-old artist, who shares three children — X Æ A-XII, Exa, and Techno Mechanicus — with tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, went on to call out those who use the internet to degrade others.
The Musician Calls for Empathy and Accountability
Grimes urged people to consider the emotional toll of their comments and to think about how it might feel to be the subject of such public criticism.
“Try to imagine the mental fortitude she presumably has,” she continued. “How do we not utterly morally condemn someone whose hateful post goes viral, gaining clout at the expense of everyone’s mental health? How do you think young girls feel reading things like this about another woman?”
The artist described the online harassment as “high school level bullying” and argued that social media companies should do more to address widespread body shaming.
“Accounts should be suspended for body shaming en masse,” Grimes declared. “This is disturbing — in part because it’s not even true if you actually watch this video.”
Grimes Calls Social Media “Unhealthy”
In her continued posts, Grimes condemned the culture of online cruelty, calling it “unhealthy” and harmful not just to the celebrities targeted but to everyone exposed to it.
“This place is unhealthy, and the fact that this kind of behavior is socially acceptable is culture death,” she wrote, adding that the effects go beyond Gomez. “Not just for Selena or the writer, but everyone who sees this and engages with this level of dehumanization.”
Her remarks have since sparked a conversation about digital empathy and how online platforms enable people to tear others down without consequences.
Selena Gomez’s Ongoing Battle With Body Shaming
While Selena Gomez has not directly addressed this recent wave of criticism, she has spoken out in the past against speculation surrounding her appearance.
The singer and actress, who has been open about her struggles with lupus and the physical changes resulting from her treatment, has often urged fans and media outlets to be more respectful.
In a 2024 TikTok comment, Gomez directly responded to a post speculating about cosmetic procedures, saying: “Honestly, I hate this. I have Botox. That’s it. Leave me alone.”
Gomez has long advocated for self-acceptance and mental health awareness, frequently discussing how constant public scrutiny affects her emotional well-being.
Growing Support for Gomez Online
Following Grimes’s defense, many fans have come forward to express solidarity with Selena, praising both women for promoting kindness in the face of online negativity.
Supporters highlighted how women in the entertainment industry are often unfairly judged for their looks, regardless of their talent or success.
Social media users also applauded Grimes for using her platform to challenge toxic behavior and promote empathy online. One fan wrote, “Grimes said what needed to be said. It’s time people stop treating celebrities like they’re not human.”
The Bigger Picture: Internet Culture and Mental Health
Grimes’s comments underscore a broader issue that many public figures — particularly women — face: relentless body scrutiny and online harassment.
Her posts reignited discussions about the need for stricter social media moderation, as well as the responsibility of users to foster healthier digital spaces.
While Selena Gomez continues to inspire millions through her art and activism, Grimes’s support reminds the internet that compassion should outweigh criticism.
Both artists have built reputations for authenticity and emotional honesty, making this exchange a powerful reminder that even celebrities deserve respect and empathy in an age dominated by digital judgment.
