Lorde Faces Backlash Over ‘Current Affairs’ Pamela Anderson Reference

New Zealand pop icon Lorde, 28, is drawing sharp criticism after referencing Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee’s infamous 1995 sex tape—describing it as “beautiful”—in both a recent Rolling Stone interview and her song “Current Affairs”, from her new album Virgin. Online backlash quickly followed.

When asked in Rolling Stone about watching the tape post-psychedelic therapy, Lorde shared:

“I found it to be so beautiful… They were like children, so free.”

The song “Current Affairs” includes lyrics referencing the couple’s honeymoon tape and how it “came out.”

Fans accused Lorde of glorifying a traumatic violation of Pamela’s privacy. A Reddit user wrote:

“It’s so deeply narcissistic and ignorant… it almost ruins the entire album for me.”

Others emphasized how the tape “changed her life forever,” and Pamela doesn’t want that scandal revisited.

Artist’s Intentions

Lorde states she felt a sense of raw intimacy and freedom watching the tape, expressing a view on vulnerability rather than sensationalism. She explained that as an emotional mirror, it helped her process themes of exposure in her art.

Pamela Anderson’s Perspective

A source close to Anderson told Daily Mail the actress didn't appreciate the moment being resurrected:

“That tape changed her life forever… she doesn’t want to relive that.”

Pamela reportedly isn’t angry at Lorde personally but finds the reference a painful reminder of trauma.

Virgin, released June 27, marks Lorde’s return to synth/dance-pop and explores her evolving identity—gender fluidity, psychedelic revelations, and personal vulnerability. Other tracks like “Man of the Year” lean into bodily autonomy and self-expression.