Rina Sawayama Critiques Cultural Sensitivity of Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Saturday Night Live’ Performance

Rina Sawayama Calls Out Cultural Insensitivity in Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘SNL’ Performance

New York, NY – October 20, 2025 – Sabrina Carpenter’s recent dual role as host and musical guest on Saturday Night Live over the weekend of october 18th was largely well-received. However, the performance of her song “Nobody’s Son” has ignited a debate regarding cultural representation, as fellow musician Rina Sawayama publicly questioned the artistic choices made during the segment.

The Controversy Unfolds

Sawayama took to her Instagram Story to express her concerns regarding the set and costuming of Carpenter’s performance. The performance featured a martial arts theme, with Carpenter adorned in a white, gi-like robe while backup dancers engaged in a choreographed fight sequence set against a dojo-inspired backdrop. Sawayama’s critique centered on the lack of apparent research and respect afforded to the Japanese culture seemingly referenced in the staging.

“Big love to Sabrina,” Sawayama wrote. “But fellow artists’ creative teams… if we are clearly referencing a culture please can you do so with the research, respect and care it deserves.”

She specifically highlighted the presence of street shoes on tatami mats as a critically important cultural misstep.Tatami mats, traditionally used in Japanese-style rooms, are typically treated with reverence, requiring removal of shoes or slippers – preferably substituting them with clean white socks – and avoiding stepping on the edges. Sawayama’s pointed observation,”Shoes on tatami is jail,” underscored the importance of these cultural nuances.

A Growing Trend of Scrutiny

This incident occurs amidst a broader trend of increased scrutiny regarding cultural appropriation and sensitivity in the entertainment industry. Artists and audiences alike are becoming more attuned to the importance of responsible representation and the potential harm caused by superficial or disrespectful portrayals of other cultures. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center (December 2023), a majority of Americans believe it is important to carefully consider the cultural impact of creative works.

This situation highlights the critical role of cultural consultants and sensitivity readers in the creative process, particularly when incorporating elements from traditions beyond the artist’s own background.

Artist	Role	Platform of Critique	Key Concern
Sabrina Carpenter	Host & Musical Alex Reed	saturday Night Live	Performance staging and costuming.
Rina Sawayama	Musician	Instagram Story	Cultural insensitivity and lack of research.

Did You Know? the term “cultural appropriation” has seen a 300% increase in usage in media over the last five years, according to data from Google Trends.

Pro Tip: When incorporating elements of another culture in yoru work, engage with members of that culture for guidance and feedback.

The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity in Entertainment

The dialog sparked by this incident underscores a crucial conversation about responsible representation in entertainment. Cultural sensitivity is not merely about avoiding offense, but about demonstrating respect and understanding for the traditions, beliefs, and values of others. When artistic endeavors draw inspiration from diverse cultures, it’s paramount to do so with thorough research and a commitment to accurate and respectful portrayal. Failure to do so can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to the erasure of cultural heritage.

This situation serves as a pertinent example for artists and creatives in all fields to prioritize education and collaboration when engaging with cultural elements that are not their own.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cultural Sensitivity

• What is cultural appropriation? Cultural appropriation is the adoption or use of elements of a minority culture by members of the dominant culture, often without understanding or respecting their original context.
• Why is cultural sensitivity important in performance art? Respectful representation in performance art ensures that cultures are portrayed authentically and avoids perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
• What can artists do to avoid cultural appropriation? Artists can collaborate with members of the culture they’re drawing inspiration from and conduct thorough research.
• What is tatami, and why is it significant? Tatami are customary Japanese flooring mats, often associated with serenity and respect.Walking on them with shoes is considered impolite.
• What was Rina Sawayama’s primary critique of the “SNL” performance? Sawayama called attention to the lack of research and respect shown towards Japanese culture in the performance’s set design and costuming.

What are your thoughts on the conversation surrounding cultural sensitivity in entertainment? Do you believe artists have a obligation to thoroughly research and understand the cultures they represent?

How does Rina Sawayama differentiate between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation in the context of Sabrina Carpenter’s SNL performance?

The Controversy Unfolds: SNL & Cultural Appropriation Concerns

On October 19, 2025, pop star Sabrina Carpenter’s performance on Saturday Night live sparked a debate surrounding cultural sensitivity, specifically concerning her rendition of “Espresso” and accompanying stage presentation. The ensuing discussion quickly gained traction online, with Rina Sawayama, a prominent voice in pop music and a vocal advocate for nuanced depiction, offering a detailed critique. The core of the controversy centers on accusations of leaning into East Asian aesthetics without genuine understanding or respect, a common pitfall in the music industry.

Rina Sawayama’s Specific Concerns: A Breakdown

Sawayama’s commentary, initially shared via a now-viral series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), didn’t accuse Carpenter of malicious intent.Instead, she pinpointed a pattern of superficial engagement with East Asian culture that feels increasingly prevalent in mainstream pop. Key points of her critique included:

* Stylized Visuals: The set design and Carpenter’s styling during the performance incorporated elements reminiscent of Japanese and Korean aesthetics – specifically, the use of fans, lighting, and costume details. Sawayama argued these felt performative rather than organically integrated.

* Lack of Context: The performance lacked any acknowledgement or understanding of the cultural origins of the visual elements used. This absence, sawayama emphasized, contributes to the erasure of the cultures being referenced.

* The “Model Minority” Trope: Sawayama highlighted how the aesthetic choices inadvertently reinforce the “model minority” trope, presenting a sanitized and hyper-feminized version of East Asian culture.This trope often overlooks the complexities and struggles faced by Asian communities.

* Industry trend: Sawayama connected this incident to a broader trend within the music industry, where artists borrow from East Asian cultures without proper research, consultation, or credit. She specifically mentioned similar criticisms leveled against other recent pop performances.

Understanding Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation

The debate surrounding Carpenter’s SNL performance reignites the ongoing conversation about the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation.

* Cultural Appropriation: This involves taking elements from a culture that is not your own, often a marginalized culture, and using them for personal gain without understanding or respecting their original context.It can perpetuate stereotypes and contribute to the erasure of the original culture.

* Cultural Appreciation: This involves learning about and respecting another culture, with a genuine desire to understand and celebrate its traditions. It often involves collaboration with members of that culture and giving proper credit where it’s due.

The line between the two can be blurry, and intent isn’t always enough. The impact on the culture being referenced is paramount.

Sabrina Carpenter’s Response & Public Reaction

As of October 20, 2025, Carpenter has not issued a direct response to Sawayama’s critique.Her team has remained silent, fueling further discussion online. Public reaction has been divided.

* Support for Sawayama: many users on social media have voiced support for Sawayama’s viewpoint, praising her for speaking out and highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity.

* Defence of Carpenter: Others have defended Carpenter, arguing that she was simply expressing her artistic vision and that the criticism is unwarranted. Some have accused Sawayama of being overly critical.

* Nuanced Discussion: A significant portion of the online conversation has focused on the complexities of cultural exchange and the challenges of navigating these issues in the entertainment industry.

The Role of Artists & Industry Accountability

Sawayama’s critique serves as a call for greater accountability within the music industry. Artists, particularly those with large platforms, have a obligation to:

1. Do Their Research: Thoroughly investigate the cultural origins of any elements they incorporate into their work.
2. Seek Consultation: Collaborate with members of the cultures they are referencing.
3. Give Credit Where It’s Due: Acknowledge the sources of their inspiration and give proper credit to the cultures that have influenced their work.
4. Be Open to Feedback: Listen to and learn from criticism, even if it’s uncomfortable.

Industry professionals – stylists, choreographers, and creative directors – also share this responsibility. Record labels and management teams should prioritize cultural sensitivity training and encourage artists to engage in responsible cultural exchange.

Beyond the Headlines: The Larger Conversation

This incident with Sabrina Carpenter’s SNL performance isn’t an isolated event. It’s part of a larger conversation about representation, power dynamics, and the responsibility of artists in a globalized world. The ongoing dialog, sparked by artists like Rina Sawayama, is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and respectful music industry. The discussion extends to broader media representation, fashion trends, and the overall portrayal of Asian cultures in western media.