Brit Awards 2025 Sparks Controversy Over Sabrina Carpenter’s Raunchy Performance and Charli XCX’s Revealing Outfit
London, March 8: The UK’s media watchdog Ofcom has received 825 complaints following last weekend’s Brit Awards 2025, primarily targeting Sabrina Carpenter’s bold performance and Charli XCX’s daring outfit.
Complaints Over “Raunchy” and “Revealing” Moments
According to BBC News, the majority of complaints referred to Sabrina Carpenter’s sultry opening performance during the pre-watershed (family-friendly) broadcast on ITV, as well as Charli XCX’s see-through black dress, which became a talking point of the night.
Carpenter, who won the International Artist Award, set the tone for the night by performing a mash-up of her hits “Espresso” and “Bed Chem,” blending them with Rule Britannia! The performance featured a military-style jacket paired with stockings and suspenders, which some viewers deemed inappropriate for early evening TV.
Meanwhile, Charli XCX, the biggest winner of the night, taking home five awards, made headlines for her sheer black dress. Addressing the controversy, she told the audience:
“I heard that ITV were complaining about my nipples. I feel like we’re in the era of ‘free the nipple’ though, right?”
Ofcom’s Response: Will There Be an Investigation?
A spokesperson for Ofcom responded to the complaints, stating:
“We are assessing the complaints against our rules, but are yet to decide whether or not to investigate.”
The Brit Awards frequently attract complaints, often due to bold performances and provocative statements.
A History of Controversial Brit Awards Moments
This is not the first time the Brit Awards has sparked controversy:
- 2020: Rapper Dave’s performance received over 300 complaints, with some viewers alleging racism against white people—a claim that Ofcom dismissed.
- 2018: Kendrick Lamar’s performance drew backlash.
- 2015: Kanye West’s stage appearance attracted 151 complaints over offensive language and race discrimination.
Despite the controversies, the 2025 Brit Awards, hosted by Jack Whitehall, celebrated major wins for Chappell Roan, The Last Dinner Party, Ezra Collective, and Sabrina Carpenter.
With Ofcom yet to decide whether to investigate, the debate over artistic freedom vs. broadcast standards continues.
Tags: Brit Awards 2025, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, Ofcom Complaints, Free the Nipple, ITV Controversy, UK Media Watchdog, Jack Whitehall, Music Industry, British Music Awards