Ashlee Simpson reflects on the profound lesson she gleaned from her infamous lip-syncing mishap on Saturday Night Live nearly two decades ago, revealing a pivotal moment of empowerment in a recent podcast appearance.
During an episode of the “Broad Ideas With Rachel Bilson & Olivia Allen” podcast on February 19, the 39-year-old singer opened up about her SNL ordeal in October 2004. Battling vocal issues caused by nodules, Simpson made the brave decision to refuse to perform, only to be pressured into taking the stage with pre-recorded vocals.
Recalling the incident, Simpson emphasized the importance of asserting herself, stating, “Learning as a woman, when you say no…that day I said ‘I will not go on, I don’t care. I can’t speak.’”
The fateful night, marred by technical glitches that exposed the lip-syncing, became a turning point for Simpson, teaching her the strength of her own voice. “It was a humbling moment for me,” she admitted, grappling with the sudden shift from soaring success to public scrutiny.
Yet, from the ashes of humiliation emerged resilience. Simpson learned to silence her critics, drawing strength from within. With the help of a vocal coach, she navigated the crisis without surgery, a testament to her determination to persevere.
Reflecting on her journey, Simpson emphasized the importance of self-belief, remarking, “I am good at this and I will keep going, and I will keep fighting.” Despite the setback, she returned to SNL the following year, but strangely, her performance seems to have vanished from the internet—a mysterious absence in her musical legacy.
Since her debut album Autobiography in 2004, Simpson has released subsequent albums and singles, including I Am Me and Bittersweet World. While she hasn’t added to her musical repertoire in recent years, her resilience and unwavering spirit continue to inspire fans and fellow artists alike.
