Sabrina Carpenter continues to face the same criticism that pop stars before her have encountered.
In a cover story interview with TIME for the TIME100 Next, the 25-year-old pop star discussed how integrating her sexuality into her work has led to some of the backlash that Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera have faced over the years.
When asked if she receives similar commentary, Carpenter responded, “No, I definitely get that as well.”
While she acknowledges that pop stars like Spears, Aguilera, Rihanna, and Madonna have made strides in this area, she notes that there are still a few critics, especially regarding her costumes.
“But you’ll still get the occasional mother that has a strong opinion on how you should be dressing,” said Carpenter. “And to that I just say, don’t come to the show and that’s OK.”
The “Nonsense” singer added: “It’s unfortunate that it’s ever been something to criticize, because truthfully, the scariest thing in the world is getting up on a stage in front of that many people and having to perform as if it’s nothing.
“If the one thing that helps you do that is the way you feel comfortable dressing, then that’s what you’ve got to do.”
She also shared her thoughts on being critiqued on social media.
“Someone once told me that whenever I get upset or feel like I’m the only one being criticized for things that others do so freely: I’m the one seeing all the negative stuff about myself. My friends don’t see that,” Carpenter explained.
The latest issue of TIME includes a heartfelt tribute to the Girl Meets World alum written by Aguilera, 43, who encourages readers to “never underestimate the mighty power” behind Carpenter’s talent.
“It’s the reason she has earned her place as one of today’s leading pop artists. She demonstrates that great things come in small packages,” the “Genie in a Bottle” singer noted, mentioning that she understands “what it takes to maintain clarity while delivering within the demands of this business” due to their similar beginnings at Disney.
Aguilera, who recently worked with Carpenter on a reimagined version of her hit song “What a Girl Wants,” added: “Sabrina handles the task with seemingly effortless ease and charisma while promoting, performing, and managing press with a smile and her signature coy charm.”

In a cover story interview with TIME for the TIME100 Next, the 25-year-old pop star discussed how integrating her sexuality into her work has led to some of the backlash that Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera have faced over the years.
When asked if she receives similar commentary, Carpenter responded, “No, I definitely get that as well.”
While she acknowledges that pop stars like Spears, Aguilera, Rihanna, and Madonna have made strides in this area, she notes that there are still a few critics, especially regarding her costumes.
“But you’ll still get the occasional mother that has a strong opinion on how you should be dressing,” said Carpenter. “And to that I just say, don’t come to the show and that’s OK.”
The “Nonsense” singer added: “It’s unfortunate that it’s ever been something to criticize, because truthfully, the scariest thing in the world is getting up on a stage in front of that many people and having to perform as if it’s nothing.
“If the one thing that helps you do that is the way you feel comfortable dressing, then that’s what you’ve got to do.”
She also shared her thoughts on being critiqued on social media.
“Someone once told me that whenever I get upset or feel like I’m the only one being criticized for things that others do so freely: I’m the one seeing all the negative stuff about myself. My friends don’t see that,” Carpenter explained.
The latest issue of TIME includes a heartfelt tribute to the Girl Meets World alum written by Aguilera, 43, who encourages readers to “never underestimate the mighty power” behind Carpenter’s talent.
“It’s the reason she has earned her place as one of today’s leading pop artists. She demonstrates that great things come in small packages,” the “Genie in a Bottle” singer noted, mentioning that she understands “what it takes to maintain clarity while delivering within the demands of this business” due to their similar beginnings at Disney.
Aguilera, who recently worked with Carpenter on a reimagined version of her hit song “What a Girl Wants,” added: “Sabrina handles the task with seemingly effortless ease and charisma while promoting, performing, and managing press with a smile and her signature coy charm.”

Olekanma Favour is a resourceful, self-motivated, and result-driven writer with a passion for crafting compelling narratives and insightful content. She loves tackling complex topics and weaving engaging stories.
When she’s not writing, Olekanma enjoys immersing herself in a good book, exploring new cuisines, and discovering new cultures.
