Chappell Roan Opens Up About Disturbing Fan Encounters and Impact on Mental Health
Chappell Roan has shared her experiences with unsettling fan interactions, detailing moments of harassment, including being kissed without consent and stalked. In a Rolling Stone profile, she expressed the toll fame has taken on her mental health. Roan spoke of her struggles with boundaries in the industry, supported by fellow artists and even receiving a call from Elton John, who encouraged her to prioritize her well-being as she continues to create music.
Chappell Roan has shared her experiences with unsettling fan interactions, which have prompted her to condemn “creepy” behaviors in a recent interview. Highlights from her conversation with Rolling Stone illustrate the toll of unwelcome attention and emphasize the importance of boundaries for artists.
Roan's Disturbing Experiences With Fans
In her profile for Rolling Stone, Chappell Roan discussed the dark influence of troubling fan encounters on her mental health. The singer described feeling harassed, including a shocking incident where a man confronted her in LAX due to an unmet autograph request in Seattle. Roan recounted the distress caused by feeling pursued, which left her emotionally shattered. After this encounter, she emotionally collapsed upon returning home, struggling to express her grief due to medication for bipolar disorder.
The Impact of Stalking and Unwanted Advances
Roan further revealed the frightening reality of having a stalker who not only tracked her to her hotel room in New York but also found her parents' home. The situation escalated when a fan inappropriately kissed her at a bar, leading Roan to publicly address the need for clearer boundaries. This prompted her to share a TikTok post highlighting "creepy" fan behavior, followed by a seven-slide Instagram update advocating for personal limits.
The Price of Fame and Support From Peers
In the interview, Roan reflected on the heavy cost of her rising fame, expressing ambivalence towards future hits. She voiced concerns about potential agoraphobia, a feeling shared by many artists overwhelmed by fan interactions. Notably, several of her peers, including Charli XCX and Lady Gaga, extended their support. Sabrina Carpenter suggested they meet up to discuss their mutual challenges, highlighting the loneliness that can accompany fame.
Unexpected Support from Elton John
Among those who reached out was the legendary Elton John, a newfound admirer of Roan’s song "Pink Pony Club." He connected with her through an unexpected phone call from an unknown number, initially leading Roan to believe it was a prank from a fan. Upon discovering it was, indeed, John, she described their conversation, during which he offered encouragement and the freedom to step back if needed. Despite these challenges, Roan remains committed to her music and is collaborating with artist Dan Nigro, hopeful for a more supportive fan culture moving forward.
