Former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has drawn significant attention online after criticizing pop artist Chappell Roan over an incident involving his young daughter. The 34-year-old, who now plays for Flamengo, described the situation as deeply distressing for his family.
Former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has drawn significant attention online after criticizing pop artist Chappell Roan over an incident involving his young daughter. The 34-year-old, who now plays for Flamengo, described the situation as deeply distressing for his family.
According to his account, the episode took place during breakfast at a hotel in Sao Paulo. He explained that his 11-year-old daughter, a fan of Roan, had prepared a sign for the Lollapalooza event where the singer was set to perform. While dining, the girl noticed the performer nearby, briefly walked past her with a smile, and returned to her seat without attempting to interact.
Jorginho stated that the situation escalated unexpectedly when a security guard approached his family. He alleged the guard spoke harshly to his wife, Catherine Harding, and their daughter, accusing them of inappropriate behavior and warning of a possible complaint to hotel management. He said the exchange left his daughter visibly shaken and in tears.
Roan later addressed the claims through a video shared on social media, expressing sympathy for the child and her mother while clarifying that she had no knowledge of the incident at the time. She emphasized that the situation did not involve her personal security team and that she had not noticed the family during the meal.
The singer explained that no one approached her or caused any disturbance, and she criticized the assumption made by the security guard. She said it was unfair to judge intentions without cause, particularly when no interaction had taken place, and reiterated that she holds no negative feelings toward her supporters or children.
Offering an apology, Roan said she felt saddened that the pair had experienced discomfort and insisted they did not deserve such treatment. She underscored that the misunderstanding should not have occurred and expressed regret over how events unfolded.
Before Roan’s response, Jorginho had reflected on his own experience in the public eye, noting his international career with the Italy national team, including their triumph at UEFA Euro 2020. He also referenced his club achievements across Europe and Brazil as context for understanding public attention and personal boundaries.
Despite this, he argued that the situation involving his daughter went beyond acceptable limits, describing it as a simple moment of admiration from a child. He expressed disappointment at what he viewed as poor treatment from individuals who should recognize the role of fans in supporting public figures.
He concluded his message with a direct and strongly worded remark aimed at the singer, suggesting that artists rely heavily on their audience. The post quickly spread across social platforms, drawing a mix of serious backing and light-hearted reactions.
Among those responding was Eduardo Cavaliere, who said he would seek to prevent Roan from performing in Rio de Janeiro and invited Jorginho’s daughter to attend the Todo Mundo as a guest. Other users referenced the singer’s earlier remarks about unsettling fan behavior, while some joked about her lack of football credentials.
