Charli XCX praised Sam Smith for being able to “withstand” the hateful comments they have faced online since the pair announced their collaboration.
The “Speed Drive” hitmaker and “Unholy” star recently announced they were releasing “In The City” this week, and days before the track’s release, Charli opened up about the backlash she faced for collaborating with the star . after calls for her to release a solo version of the song remained in her Instagram comments section.
Addressing the negative comments Sam has received online, Charli shared on TikTok on Tuesday (10/17/23): “I’m about to release a song with Sam Smith and the experience so far has been really interesting because never in my life have I seen Have I ever seen anyone receive so many hateful comments online.
“Honestly, it’s very disappointing, but at the same time I’m so proud of Sam’s ability to handle it because I know I definitely couldn’t handle it.
“So I just want to say, Sam, I love you and I love our song together and I’m in awe of your strength.”
Sam is often trolled for his fashion choices and body shape, and their Wicked co-star Kim Petras has also previously praised the way they deal with adversity.
The pop stars made headlines after their performances at the Grammys and BRIT Awards earlier this year, when the pair caused a stir with their hellish performance of the hit.
This led to Sam being ridiculed for their appearance, but Kim said the “I’m Not Here to Make Friends” singer took it all personally and showed her how to deal with negativity.
Speaking to Metro.co.uk, Kim said: “It’s been a really incredible journey, I had a lot of fun with Sam and I think we felt really strong on stage together and gave each other a lot of confidence.
“I feel like I learned a lot from Sam about how to deal with the media and people commenting on your appearance, your appearance, your body. People were very hard on Sam, but I was very impressed with how Sam handled it all and didn’t let him get close.
“Sometimes it’s so hard, you look at the comments or the press materials and you think, oh my God, everyone hates me. But wait a few hours, touch the grass, breathe and let it go.”
