Singer Doja Cat has responded to comments made by actor Timothée Chalamet about opera and ballet, defending the centuries-old art forms.
In a TikTok video, the hip-hop star criticized Chalamet for claiming that “no one cares about [opera or ballet] anymore.” She highlighted that opera has existed for over 400 years and ballet for around 500, emphasizing that performances continue to attract dedicated audiences.
Doja Cat also praised the discipline and physical demands of ballet, noting that dancers endure significant pain out of passion for their craft. She argued that audience quietness during performances reflects deep respect rather than disinterest.
Chalamet’s remarks, made at a CNN and Variety town hall in Austin on February 21, sparked backlash from fans and cultural institutions. In response, the Metropolitan Opera posted a behind-the-scenes video of staff preparing for a performance, captioned: “This one’s for you, Timothée Chalamet.”
Doja Cat’s intervention adds to a growing chorus defending classical arts, underscoring their enduring appeal despite challenges in modern entertainment.
