Doja Cat has joined the growing backlash against Timothée Chalamet’s recent remarks about opera and ballet. The hip-hop star took to TikTok to defend the classical art forms, which she noted have been around for centuries.
In her video, Doja Cat explained that opera has a history spanning over 400 years, while ballet dates back roughly 500 years. She also mispronounced Chalamet’s name before criticizing what she called his dismissive attitude toward these genres. According to Doja, the actor “had the nerve” to claim that people no longer care about opera or ballet.
The singer argued that these performances still draw large audiences. She suggested that if someone visited an opera house today, they’d likely find it packed. She also pointed out that audiences remain silent during shows out of deep respect for the art, which she described as “very beautiful.”
Doja Highlights the Challenge of Ballet Dancers
Doja Cat went on to highlight the physical challenges faced by ballet dancers. Also emphasizing the intense pain and dedication they endure for their craft. She acknowledged that the classical arts industry might be facing tough times but insisted this doesn’t mean people have lost interest.
Chalamet’s controversial comments came during a CNN and Variety town hall event in Austin on February 21. While discussing the future of the film industry with Matthew McConaughey. He said he wouldn’t want to work in opera or ballet just to preserve them, claiming, “no one cares about [opera or ballet] anymore.”
In response, several cultural institutions clapped back. The Metropolitan Opera even posted a video of staff preparing for a performance with the caption: “This one’s for you, Timothée Chalamet.”
Watch Doja’s video below
