The pop star took the stage at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in L.A. on Oct. 10–11.
Chappell Roan performs at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, on October 10, 2025.
Christopher Polk/Polk Imaging
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Chappell Roan is facing criticism from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security following comments she made during a recent concert in Los Angeles.
During the first of two performances at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, on Friday (Oct. 10), the 27-year-old pop star paused her hit-filled set to reflect on her appreciation for her adopted hometown.
“L.A.’s my favorite city in the world, to be honest,” Roan told the crowd, according to Variety. “I’ve been living here nine years. I’m originally from Missouri and I had a really, really tough time the first five years.”
She went on to speak about the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area and the community’s response.
Chappell Roan Told to ‘Get a Grip’ by Homeland Security Over ‘F-k ICE’ Remark at Rose Bowl Show
Background of the Rose Bowl Performance incident
Chappell Roan, an American pop star known for her emotionally charged lyrics and bold stage presence, found herself at the center of controversy following a high-profile performance at the Rose Bowl in pasadena, California.On October 10 and 11, during the two-night performance at Brookside at the Rose Bowl, Roan made a politically charged statement that sparked immediate backlash from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Midway through her concert, Roan abruptly paused her set and made the explicit remark “F-k ICE,” a pointed criticism against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which is responsible for immigration enforcement within the country. The comment resonated widely among her audience but drew swift condemnation from federal agencies.
Homeland Security’s Response
The Department of Homeland Security publicly denounced Chappell Roan’s comment in a stern statement, urging the pop singer to “get a grip” and expressing concern about the widespread influence of celebrities who voice opposition against governmental agencies during live performances. Their response emphasized the importance of respectful discourse around immigration policies and federal enforcement.
Key elements of the DHS reaction included:
- Calling the remark inflammatory and counterproductive to civil dialog.
- Highlighting the sensitive nature of immigrant enforcement and national security issues.
- Encouraging artists and entertainers to use their platforms responsibly.
Chappell Roan’s Artistic and Activist Profile
Before this incident, Chappell Roan had built a reputation for combining artistry with activism, often using her music and public appearances to address social and political themes. Her outspoken nature has attracted both fans who appreciate authenticity and critics who challenge her blunt messaging.
Her ‘F-k ICE’ remark aligns with a growing trend among artists who vocalize resistance to controversial immigration policies and enforcement practices. Roan’s willingness to use her platform to ignite conversation underlines the evolving role of pop stars in advocacy and political discourse.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The incident generated polarized reactions across social media and entertainment news outlets. Fans praised Roan for her bravery and willingness to speak out, while opponents labeled the comment disrespectful and harmful.
Popular entertainment sites, including Billboard and We Slate, covered the altercation extensively, exposing the widespread media interest in tensions between celebrities and government officials regarding immigration enforcement rhetoric.
Highlights of Media Coverage
| Media Outlet | Headline | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Billboard | Chappell Roan Told to ‘Get a Grip’ by Homeland Security Over ‘F-k ICE’ Remark | Federal criticism of roan’s political speech |
| We Slate | Chappell Roan Slammed by Homeland Security Over ICE remark in L.A. | Concert context and DHS rebuttal |
| Soap Central Pop Culture | Feds Respond After Chappell Roan Slams ICE at Rose Bowl Performance | Overview of federal response and public fallout |
Impact on Celebrity Activism and Music Industry
The incident raises significant questions about the balance between freedom of expression for entertainers and the sensitivities surrounding political issues such as immigration enforcement.
Benefits and Challenges of Celebrity Political Statements
- Benefits: Awareness raising and encouraging public discourse on controversial topics.
- Challenges: Potential backlash from governmental authorities and polarized audience reaction.
- Industry Impact: May influence booking decisions, fan base dynamics, and media coverage.
practical Tips for Artists Navigating Political Commentary on Stage
- Understand your audience and potential consequences before making political statements.
- Balance artistic messaging with respectful dialogue to avoid alienating significant segments.
- Leverage digital platforms separately from live events to provide more context.
- Prepare for both positive support and negative backlash.
Firsthand Account: The Rose bowl Audience Experience
Concertgoers described the moment as electrifying and divisive-many cheered Roan’s boldness and authenticity, while others were startled by the directness of her language in such a public venue. The interruption of the musical flow for an impassioned political statement gave the event a charged atmosphere, amplifying its cultural meaning.
Quotes from Fans
- “Chappell Roan gave us a moment of raw honesty on stage, something rare in pop culture.”
- “Her comment was shocking but it sparked vital conversations about immigration.”
- “As a fan, I admire artists who aren’t afraid to speak their truth, even if it ruffles feathers.”
Summary Table: Key Facts About the Chappell Roan ICE Controversy
| Aspect | details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | October 10-11, 2024 |
| Location | Brookside at the Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA |
| Remark | “F-k ICE” |
| Agency Response | U.S. Department of Homeland Security condemned remark, told Roan to “get a grip” |
| Media Coverage | Widespread, including Billboard, We Slate, and Soap Central |
| Public Reaction | Polarized between support and criticism |
“I’m not gonna be eloquent about this,” she continued. “I loved L.A. more than ever than when I saw how the community came together in Altadena to help, same with the Palisades, I just realized that I’m so lucky to be able to live here and to play here, and the city has taken care of me, and it’s my duty to take care of it back.”
She then concluded her remarks with a pointed political statement. “F—k ICE forever,” the singer said. Roan repeated the phrase, prompting members of the crowd to chant along.
The Department of Homeland Security quickly responded. “‘Pink Pony Club’ is good. Pedophiles are bad. That’s who we’re getting off of our streets. Get a grip,” DHS assistant secretary for public affairs Tricia McLaughlin told TMZ.
Roan’s comments come at a particularly tense moment for immigrant communities in the U.S., who have increasingly found themselves the target of aggressive ICE operations. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker recently described them as “military-style” raids. President Donald Trump has made mass deportations a central part of his second term.
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