Katy Perry made a strong statement to kick off LGBTQ+ Pride Month by sharing a heavily edited version of Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker’s controversial commencement speech. The singer, known for her hit “I Kissed a Girl,” posted the edited video on Instagram, highlighting her support for her fans and the LGBTQ+ community.
“Fixed this for my girls, my graduates, and my gays — you can do anything,” Perry, 39, wrote on June 1. “Congratulations and happy pride.” The edited speech altered Butker’s original comments, which had stirred controversy for focusing on traditional gender roles and opposing abortion and IVF. In Perry’s version, Butker appears to praise diversity, equity, inclusion, and Pride Month.
Harrison Butker’s Original Speech
Harrison Butker delivered his contentious commencement speech at Kansas’ Benedictine College on May 11. He claimed most female graduates would be “most excited” about marriage and motherhood and criticized abortion and IVF. His remarks sparked mixed reactions and widespread discussions.
On May 24, Butker addressed the backlash at the Courage Under Fire Gala in Nashville. He defended his Catholic faith, saying, “In my seven years in the NFL, I’ve become familiar with the positive and negative comments, but the majority of them revolve around my performance on the field. But as to be expected, the more I’ve talked about what I value most, which is my Catholic faith, the more polarizing I have become. It’s a decision I’ve consciously made and one I do not regret at all.”
Katy Perry edits Harrison Butker’s controversial graduation speech for Pride Month:
— Pop Base (@PopBase) June 2, 2024
“fixed this for my girls, my graduates, and my gays – you can do anything, congratulations and happy pride 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️🧡” pic.twitter.com/6MTiPELqga
Reactions and Support
E! News reached out to Butker’s representative for comment on Perry’s post but has not yet received a response. Meanwhile, Perry’s bold move has garnered both praise and criticism, reflecting the polarized views surrounding Butker’s speech.
Katy Perry’s Exit and Speculation on Her Replacement
Katy Perry’s announcement of her departure from “American Idol” at the end of the 2024 season has left fans and fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie in shock. The news, revealed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” hinted at Perry’s desire to focus on new music projects.
Speculation is rife about who might replace Perry on the judging panel. Rumored candidates include global superstar Taylor Swift and former “American Idol” judge Jennifer Lopez. While Swift’s participation is seen as a long shot due to her busy schedule, Lopez, who previously judged seasons 10-15, has expressed interest but has a full plate of commitments.
In the wake of Perry’s announcement, season 6 winner Jordin Sparks has thrown her hat in the ring. She tweeted, “Oh hiiii @AmericanIdol—I hear a seat opened up at the judges table! I’m putting my name in the hat!”
Lionel Richie’s Thoughts
During his own appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” Lionel Richie remained tight-lipped about Perry’s replacement but expressed confidence that the new judge would need to be both humorous and knowledgeable to fill Perry’s shoes.
