Katy Perry's recent adventure aboard Blue Origin's space capsule has sparked significant backlash, leading to a setback in her already fluctuating career. The 40-year-old pop star, who took part in the 11-minute flight with fellow “astronauts” like CBS anchor Gayle King, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, and others, faced ridicule online and from celebrities alike.


Katy Perry was one of a group of women that included Lauren Sánchez, CBS anchor Gayle King, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, engineer Aisha Bowe and film producer Kerianne Flynn, who traveled into space in Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin spaceship.Blue Origin/Mega

Many fans and public figures criticized the flight as “cringeworthy,” including Olivia Munn, who called it "a bit gluttonous," and Olivia Wilde, who mocked the event with memes. Actress Emily Ratajkowski also chimed in, saying, "That’s end time s–t. Like, this is beyond parody." On social media, actress Jessica Chastain shared an op-ed from The Guardian, criticizing the flight, while musician Trace Cyrus, Miley Cyrus’ brother, slammed Perry for allegedly copying Miley’s career trajectory.

The timing of this backlash couldn’t have been worse for Perry, who was gearing up for her first global tour in eight years. Meanwhile, her latest album, 143, which debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard 200, fell off the charts in less than a month. Critics have pointed out that the lackluster reception of the album, along with her attempts to remain relevant through flashy moves like the space flight, may be contributing to the decline of her pop status.

In addition, the lead single from 143, "Woman’s World," faced criticism for being perceived as promoting "white-woman feminism," and Perry’s collaboration with controversial producer Dr. Luke, who has been involved in a legal battle with Kesha, added to the controversy. Some even connected her public struggles to a curse, referencing an incident where a nun allegedly cursed her during a property dispute over a Los Angeles convent.

Despite the criticism, Perry is continuing with her Lifetimes Tour, which features a futuristic, "cyborgian" stage concept. Her fiancé, Orlando Bloom, and their daughter, Daisy, are also expected to be a part of the tour, which could be a way for Perry to refocus her career and image.

Despite her efforts, Perry’s image is currently overshadowed by the negative press. With her album's failure to maintain momentum, the mockery over her space trip, and continuous media scrutiny, it’s clear that Perry’s place in pop music royalty might be in jeopardy.

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About the characters:

• Katy Perry: An American pop singer and songwriter known for chart-topping hits like California Gurls and Teenage Dream. Perry’s recent space trip and album 143 have drawn criticism, leading to challenges in her career.

• Orlando Bloom: An English actor best known for his roles in Pirates of the Caribbean and The Lord of the Rings. He is engaged to Katy Perry, and they have a daughter together.

• Miley Cyrus: An American singer and actress, known for her bold transformations in music and public persona. Miley’s brother, Trace Cyrus, criticized Katy Perry for allegedly mimicking her career moves.

• Dr. Luke: A music producer who has faced legal issues with Kesha. He worked with Katy Perry on her single Woman's World, which sparked some controversy.