Chart-topping sensation Dua Lipa has decided to shelve a high-budget music video, despite it costing hundreds of thousands of pounds, citing concerns over its “insensitivity” amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
The 28-year-old British superstar, who had secretly filmed the video before the conflict erupted on October 7, expressed her reservations after a series of emergency meetings with her team. The video, boasting scenes of explosions, car crashes, demolition, and chaotic crowds, was conceptualized prior to the war and was intended to coincide with the release of her upcoming third studio album.
According to a music insider, “At its heart the video was playful but contained themes of chaos. Dua and her team decided that it would be insensitive for the video to come out given what has happened on and since October 7.”
The decision comes as a result of the violent conflict triggered by an attack launched by the terrorist group Hamas on Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 casualties. The video, originally intended to be part of Dua Lipa’s promotional campaign, was deemed inappropriate given the gravity of the situation in Gaza.
In October, Dua Lipa shared her heartfelt sentiments on Instagram, expressing sorrow for the people of Israel and Palestine. She wrote, “With each passing day, my heart aches for the people of Israel and Palestine. Grief for the lives lost in the horrifying attacks in Israel. Grief as I witness the unprecedented suffering in Gaza, where 2.2 million souls, half of them children, endure unimaginable hardships.”
The yet-to-be-announced track featuring the controversial video will be part of Dua Lipa’s highly anticipated third studio album. Her recent single, “Houdini,” reached an impressive No. 2 spot in the charts upon its release last month.
Despite the video setback, Dua Lipa continues to dominate the music scene, recently earning the title of Britain’s highest-earning female singer, surpassing Adele. Currently enjoying the festive season in India, she is expected to headline at Glastonbury next year, adding another milestone to her illustrious career.
