Katy Perry turns 41: A Look back at pop star's most shocking controversies

Katy Perry turned a year old as she is celebrating her 41st birthday on Saturday, October 25.

The birthday girl, who is recognised as one of the best-selling music artists of all time, has also been a popular face of numerous controversies.

On her auspicious special day, let's delve into Perry's most notable and shocking controversies that the pop star has been involved in:

Accused of blasphemy

Perry faced backlash from some Muslims countries in 2014 over her American Music Awards performance, where she wore a dress with Islamic-inspired designs, including a hijab-like veil and Arabic calligraphy, sparking accusations of cultural disrespect.

The Dark Horse hitmaker later addressed the issue, stating she meant no disrespect and was inspired by the beauty of Islamic art and culture.

Perry’s involvement in Kesha vs. Dr. Luke

The ex-fiancé of Orlando Bloom was involved in the Kesha v. Dr. Luke case, as the TikTok singer accused the doctor of raping the E.T. songstress, a claim both parties denied.

A judge later ruled there was no evidence to support Kesha's claim. Dr. Luke later sued her for defamation.

After the legal feud was over, Perry worked with Dr. Luke in 2024 for the album, 143.

Moreover, she even collaborated with him on the lead song Women’s World of the same album.

Her spaceflight controversy

The Last Friday Night singer ‘s spaceflight controversy stems from her participation in an all-female Blue Origin spaceflight in April 2025.

Her 11-minute trip along with notable female celebrities sparked backlash, with critics labeling it a wasteful, overpriced PR stunt.

Perry addressed the criticism, stating that she doesn't regret going to space, but wishes she'd handled the publicity differently, removing the word "perfect" from her vocabulary, and focusing on self-acceptance.

Branded one of ‘rudest celebrities’

In 2023, the Roar singer in one particular incident was called out for being one of the rudest celebrities.

During an American Idol audition by young mother of three Sarah Beth Liebe, Perry pretended to faint before joking, “Honey, you’ve been laying on the table too much.”

Shortly after, the singer then proceeded to tell the young contestant that singing “wasn’t her dream” and that she “wouldn’t go far.”

Unsurprisingly, Katy’s scandalous comments didn’t land well with viewers, many of whom urged her to apologise for “mom shaming”. 

Katty Perry and Justin Trudeau

The last yet the latest controversy stems from her personal life; dating former Canadian prime minister!

Perry's recent dating life has sparked controversy, particularly her rumoured romance with Trudeau after the two were spotted having dinner in Montreal, sparking speculation about their relationship status.

The rumoured couple were first linked together in July 2025.