Hayley Williams, the lead singer of Paramore, has responded to backlash regarding her comments condemning former President Donald Trump during the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Festival. Following her performance on September 20 in Las Vegas, Williams shared her thoughts on Instagram after a critic accused her of reading from a script.
In her Instagram Story, Williams clarified her approach to delivering her message. “Whoever you are, I typed out my speech and had a crew member hold it near the camera for me in case I got nervous because what I had to say was important and I didn’t want to trip up in the moment. Didn’t end up looking at it though… that’s because I prepared,” she explained.
Williams further emphasized that she was not compensated for her remarks or the performance itself, stating, “Not only was I not paid to make the speech, but we (Paramore) didn’t get paid to play that radio fest either. Just out here kicking ass for free I guess. Thanks so much for your concern and for spelling my name right, bye!”
During her address at the festival, Williams expressed her concerns regarding Trump’s political agenda. She characterized his “Project 2025” as a blueprint for suppressing women, marginalized communities, and the LGBTQ+ population. “It is time for all Americans to band together and finally defeat the Trump agenda. And the only way to do that is by confronting him at the polls,” she urged the audience, adding, “Do you want to live in a dictatorship? Well, show up and vote.”
Williams has a history of vocalizing her political views. Last year, she condemned anti-LGBTQ+ legislation targeting drag performers and gender-affirming care, asserting, “Drag is not a crime. Gender-affirming health care for all, including our youth, is a necessity.” She expressed solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community in the face of what she described as harmful legislative actions.
Through her recent statements, Williams continues to demonstrate her commitment to social and political issues, using her platform to advocate for change and empowerment.
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