Singer Cancels Pride Set After Revealing Struggles with Queer Label Expectations
JoJo Siwa has withdrawn from a scheduled appearance at Saturday’s Pride celebration in Chicago, a sudden move that follows recent comments in which she described feeling pressured by the LGBTQ+ community to define her sexuality.
Back Lot Bash Chicago issued a social media statement that said, “Due to a scheduling conflict, JoJo Siwa will no longer be performing at Chicago’s Back Lot Bash.”
The pop performer and internet personality, who came out publicly in 2021 and has previously identified as a lesbian, told the Daily Mail last week that she has felt boxed in by labels. The remarks sparked conversation and some backlash online ahead of her planned Pride event appearance.
Siwa, 21, confirmed she is currently in a relationship with Chris Hughes, a social media creator based in the U.K. The two reportedly spent two weeks together abroad, with Siwa sharing in a recent conversation with beauty influencer James Charles that the relationship is progressing well. “It’s going great,” she said, describing Hughes as “the favorite part of my life.”
Though she has not elaborated on the reasons for the Pride performance cancellation, the timing suggests the decision may be connected to the ongoing scrutiny over her comments about sexual identity. Siwa has been a visible advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion since coming out, with many fans considering her an important role model for young queer audiences.
