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charli-xcx

Charli XCX Denies Russia Ties After Party Organizer Linked to Putin Allies

by James Carter Senior News Editor February 19, 2026

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Pop star Charli XCX has addressed concerns surrounding an afterparty she attended in Berlin following the premiere of her mockumentary, “The Moment.” The event has drawn criticism due to allegations that the party organizer, Anastasia Shevtsova, has familial ties to individuals connected to the Russian government. The controversy highlights the increasing scrutiny artists face regarding associations in the wake of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The questions arose after United24 Media reported on Monday that Shevtsova, similarly known as Petit, hosted the afterparty. The report alleges Shevtsova is the daughter of Zhanna Shevtsova, president of the “Traditsiya” foundation, which reportedly collaborates with Vladimir Putin’s Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives on projects in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine. The outlet also claimed Petit had traveled to areas of Ukraine occupied by Russia since the 2022 invasion.

Responding to the backlash, Charli XCX stated on Thursday via her Instagram story, “For clarity, neither me nor my team were aware of any of the alleged affiliations around the party in Berlin.” She continued, “I would like to take this opportunity to say I stand against the atrocities committed by the Russian government in Ukraine, and I stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”

Anastasia Shevtsova, also issued a statement on Instagram, denying any connection to the conflict. “My family members live in Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine,” she wrote. “The current tragedy affects me personally and deeply. I would never wish harm, violence, or suffering on anyone.”

The “Traditsiya” foundation, as reported by Billboard, reportedly promotes Russian culture. The allegations are particularly sensitive given Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the continued occupation of Ukrainian territory, which has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement.

Charli XCX’s film, “The Moment,” premiered in the U.S. At the end of January, preceding the release of “Wuthering Heights,” a movie featuring a soundtrack by the artist. Rolling Stone reviewed the film at Sundance, describing it as a parody of the excesses of a world tour.

The incident underscores the challenges for artists navigating geopolitical sensitivities and the potential for unintended associations. The scrutiny surrounding Shevtsova’s connections raises questions about due diligence and the responsibility of event organizers to vet participants, particularly in the current global climate.

The situation is still developing, and further investigation may reveal additional details about the connections between Shevtsova’s family and the Russian government. It remains to be seen whether this incident will impact Charli XCX’s future events or collaborations.

What comes next will likely involve continued public discussion and a heightened awareness of potential political affiliations within the entertainment industry.

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February 19, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Charli XCX: End of ‘Brat Summer’ & New Film ‘The Moment’ – Review & Details

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 15, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Charli XCX, the British pop sensation who dominated the cultural conversation in 2024 with her album Brat, is officially closing the chapter on that era. The album, with its striking lime-green cover, sparked a global phenomenon dubbed “brat summer,” even infiltrating the visual aesthetics of Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign. Now, nearly two years later, the 33-year-old artist is marking a new direction with her foray into film, The Moment.

The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival last month and was presented by Charli XCX herself at the Berlinale this weekend. “Of course, it depends on the world, but as far as I’m concerned, brat summer is over,” she told reporters, addressing whether she intends to continue exploring the intersection of music and the informal fashion movement. “As they say in the film: you can’t worry about how it ends when it’s already happened,” she added. The Moment is a mockumentary, a genre that presents fictional events as real, and features Charli XCX playing a heightened version of herself – a pop star preparing for her first tour while navigating the pressures of fame and the music industry.

From Alternative Darling to Global Icon

Much like the real Charli XCX, who initially built a reputation as an alternative artist, her on-screen persona begins with a dedicated fanbase before unexpectedly achieving worldwide recognition. The film portrays her making career choices that diverge from the advice of her record label. “The scenarios we present in the film aren’t real,” XCX explained at the Berlinale, “But they could be under different circumstances. I’ve come close to those circumstances myself over the years in the music industry.”

The Moment boasts a star-studded cast alongside Charli XCX, including Alexander Skarsgård as an overbearing director sent by the studio to film her concert, Kylie Jenner, known for Keeping Up with the Kardashians, model Julia Fox, and actress and comedian Rachel Sennott. All play fictionalized versions of themselves. The film is directed by Aidan Zamiri, marking his feature film debut. Charli XCX described the filming process as cathartic, allowing her to process frustrations she’d experienced in her own career. “We were very interested in the question of the longevity of artwork, the tension that comes with occupying a cultural space for longer than you’re supposed to,” she noted.

Critical Reception and a Shift in Focus

Initial reactions to The Moment at Sundance were mixed. However, ahead of the Berlin premiere at the luxurious Zoo Palast cinema, fans braved the cold for hours, hoping to catch a glimpse of the artist. The Guardian awarded the film three out of five stars, praising its ideas and visual style but finding it strangely empty and requiring a strong understanding of the “brat summer” phenomenon. The review similarly noted that Charli XCX’s performance sometimes resembled “a stammering, nervous student mechanically reciting her lines and trying to break free from her established persona.” The Guardian

Conversely, Pitchfork offered a more positive assessment, describing the film as a blend of celebrity-filled thriller, reality show, and pop documentary. “I’ve seen her twice on tour for the album Brat, and the concert scenes in the film are as great as they were live,” the reviewer wrote. However, Pitchfork emphasized that the film is primarily a satire of the music industry and how it’s structured around money and video content. “The film is smarter than it looks, and far more ambitious than most pop documentaries. I don’t grasp how we went so long without a female pop satire,” they concluded. Pitchfork

Charli XCX’s creative focus is expanding beyond music this year. She has already contributed the soundtrack to the new adaptation of Wuthering Heights, currently screening in Czech cinemas. In addition to The Moment, she is also appearing in three other upcoming films: The Gallerist, I Want Your Sex, and Faces of Death.

What’s Next for Charli XCX?

With The Moment, Charli XCX appears to be deliberately drawing a line under the “brat summer” era, while simultaneously launching a new chapter in her career. Her move into film signals a willingness to explore different creative avenues and to engage with the industry from a new perspective. As she navigates this transition, it will be interesting to see how her experiences as a musician inform her work as an actress and filmmaker. The success of The Moment, and her continued involvement in film projects, will undoubtedly shape her artistic trajectory in the years to come.

What are your thoughts on Charli XCX’s new film? Share your opinions in the comments below!

February 15, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Charli XCX: Still a “brat”? | DIE ZEIT

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 14, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Charli XCX’s musical evolution has always been defined by a willingness to embrace and subvert pop conventions. From sugary synth-pop beginnings to the deconstructed club sounds of her critically acclaimed album Hyperpop, the British artist has consistently defied expectations. Now, she’s leaning into a recent persona – the “brat” – a provocative and unapologetic figure that’s sparking conversation and dominating her latest musical output. This embrace of a deliberately abrasive aesthetic, and the associated attitude, is proving to be both a creative and commercial success for the artist.

The “brat” persona isn’t simply a stylistic choice; it’s a deliberate reclamation of a historically negative label. Charli XCX, whose real name is Charlotte Emma Aitchison, has spoken about wanting to embody a kind of playful, defiant energy, rejecting the pressure to be palatable or conform to industry standards. This shift is particularly notable given the often-restrictive expectations placed upon female artists in pop music, and represents a conscious effort to control her own narrative and image. The artist’s exploration of this archetype is resonating with a generation that increasingly values authenticity and self-expression.

The Rise of the “Brat” Aesthetic

The “brat” aesthetic first began to take shape with the release of her single “360” in 2023, and has continued to develop through subsequent releases like “Vroom Vroom” and her album Brat, released in 2024. The music is characterized by aggressive beats, distorted vocals, and a generally chaotic energy. Visually, the aesthetic is equally bold, featuring provocative imagery and a deliberately unpolished look. This is a departure from the more polished and refined aesthetic of some of her earlier work, and signals a willingness to experiment and push boundaries.

The embrace of the “brat” persona extends beyond the music and visuals. Charli XCX has actively engaged with fans on social media, adopting a playfully antagonistic tone and encouraging them to embrace their own rebellious sides. This direct engagement has fostered a strong sense of community around the project, with fans enthusiastically adopting the “brat” identity and creating their own content inspired by the aesthetic. The artist’s willingness to connect with her audience on this level has been a key factor in the success of the project.

Reclaiming a Loaded Term

The term “brat” carries significant cultural baggage, often used to dismiss assertive or unconventional women as spoiled or difficult. By reclaiming the term, Charli XCX is challenging these negative stereotypes and turning them into a source of empowerment. She’s reframing the “brat” as someone who is confident, unapologetic, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. This reclamation is particularly significant in the context of ongoing conversations about gender roles and female agency in the music industry.

This isn’t the first time an artist has attempted to subvert a negative label. Though, Charli XCX’s approach feels particularly timely and relevant, tapping into a broader cultural moment of questioning traditional norms and embracing individuality. The artist’s willingness to embrace complexity and contradiction is a key part of her appeal, and allows her to connect with audiences on a deeper level. The success of the “brat” persona demonstrates a growing appetite for artists who are willing to challenge expectations and push boundaries.

Commercial Success and Critical Reception

The “brat” era has been a commercial success for Charli XCX. Brat debuted at number [number not independently confirmed] on the [chart name not independently confirmed] charts, and her recent tour sold out venues across [region not independently confirmed]. The album has also received positive reviews from critics, who have praised her willingness to experiment and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of pop music. Publications like [publication name not independently confirmed] have highlighted the album’s innovative production and its bold lyrical themes.

However, the “brat” persona hasn’t been without its critics. Some have accused Charli XCX of being performative or appropriative, questioning the authenticity of her embrace of the aesthetic. Others have expressed concern that the provocative imagery and lyrics could be harmful or exploitative. These criticisms highlight the complexities of navigating identity and representation in the digital age, and underscore the importance of engaging in thoughtful dialogue about these issues.

Looking ahead, it remains to be seen how Charli XCX will continue to evolve the “brat” persona. Will she continue to push the boundaries of the aesthetic, or will she explore new creative directions? One thing is certain: Charli XCX is an artist who is always willing to take risks and challenge expectations, and her future work is sure to be just as provocative and innovative as her past efforts. The conversation surrounding her artistic choices will undoubtedly continue, solidifying her position as a leading voice in contemporary pop music.

What are your thoughts on Charli XCX’s “brat” persona? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your friends!

February 14, 2026 0 comments

News

Charli XCX on “The Moment” & Saying Goodbye to the “Brat” Era | Berlin Film Festival 2024

by James Carter Senior News Editor February 14, 2026

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Berlin – Pop star Charli xcx is drawing praise for her performance in the mockumentary “The Moment,” a film that explores the complexities of fame and artistic integrity. At the film’s press conference during the Berlin International Film Festival on Saturday, February 14, 2026, xcx joked that she approached the role with a dedication bordering on the extreme, stating she was “Method from the day I was born.” The film, which premiered at Sundance last month, is already making waves for its candid portrayal of the music industry and the pressures faced by artists.

“The Moment” presents an alternate-reality version of xcx as she navigates the challenges of maintaining artistic control while facing commercial demands. The narrative centers around a planned concert film documenting her “Brat” tour, complicated by the involvement of a manipulative director, played by Alexander Skarsgård. The film’s exploration of these themes has resonated with audiences, becoming A24’s fastest-selling limited release in history, with over 50 screenings selling out and attracting a predominantly under-35 demographic, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

xcx revealed that the film’s scenarios, while heightened for dramatic effect, were often rooted in her own experiences. “I’ve definitely arrive close” to some of the moments depicted, she said, adding that many of the characters were inspired by individuals she’s encountered throughout her career. She recounted a particularly relatable scene, admitting, “Have I had a breakdown in the back of a Viano while smoking a million cigarettes? Yes. So I definitely had a lot to draw on.”

The cast of “The Moment” also includes Rosanna Arquette, Kate Berlant, Jamie Demetriou, Hailey Benton Gates, Isaac Powell, Rish Shah, Kylie Jenner, and Rachel Sennott. The film was directed by Aidan Zamiri, who co-wrote the screenplay with Bertie Brandes, based on an original idea from xcx herself, as detailed on Wikipedia.

xcx also highlighted the importance of showcasing the film at the Berlinale, praising the festival’s commitment to politically and socially relevant cinema. “I’m only just starting out in this industry, but I experience passionate about working within those spaces,” she stated, according to Deadline. She applauded the festival for “not shying away from political films, from films that have a real social angle, films by directors who really are visionary and have something to say.”

The film also serves as a definitive statement on xcx’s “Brat” era. When asked if “The Moment” signaled the end of that chapter, xcx was unequivocal: “For me, it’s over and you can’t dread the end when it’s over.” She explained that the film’s narrative arc, in which her character actively dismantles the “Brat” persona, mirrored the creative team’s intention to provide a conclusive ending to the album campaign. “In the film, Charli decides to free herself of ‘Brat’ and kill ‘Brat.’ And I think we were aware that this film was probably the full stop at the end of an album campaign.”

“The Moment” is slated for release in Europe next week following its premiere at the Berlinale. The film’s success and xcx’s candid reflections on the role suggest a continued conversation about the pressures of fame and the artistic choices artists craft in a rapidly evolving industry.

What impact will “The Moment” have on the broader conversation surrounding artist autonomy and the commercialization of art? Only time will advise, but the film has already sparked significant discussion within the music industry and among fans. Share your thoughts in the comments below.