Cyndi Lauper’s viral performance sparks backlash, but fans rally behind the iconic 71-year-old singer

Cyndi Lauper is facing online backlash following a controversial moment during her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour, but her loyal fans have quickly rallied in her defence. The 71-year-old pop legend, known for her bold style and timeless hits, found herself at the centre of criticism after a video from one of her live performances went viral on X (formerly Twitter).

In the footage, Lauper performs her 1985 hit The Goonies ‘R’ Good Enough with vibrant teal hair and a shiny metallic outfit. While her energy on stage remains infectious, some viewers were quick to criticise her performance. One commenter questioned, “WTF happened to Cyndi Lauper?” while another dismissed the performance with, “She’s 71 for heaven’s sake. Quit already. You’re embarrassing yourself.”

These comments, deemed ageist and misogynistic by many, have sparked outrage among Lauper’s supporters. Music critic Anthony Fantano, who is known for his outspoken views, fired back, writing, “She dropped multiple hits, made many albums, aged, and had a career that resulted in a fan base that she’s still performing for decades later. Will you be able to do the same?”

Fans echoed this sentiment, praising Lauper for her resilience and ongoing contributions to music. One fan tweeted, “She’s 71 and still moving great and singing. It takes a lot of courage to keep going.” Another noted, “She’s entitled to grow old. Even old ladies can bop.”

Lauper, who has been in the music industry for over four decades, is currently on her first major tour in a decade. The Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour, which kicked off in Montreal in October 2024, is scheduled to conclude in Paris in February 2025. Lauper, who has sold over 50 million records and won numerous accolades, including a Tony Award for Kinky Boots, has been clear about her intentions for the tour – to thank her fans while still in good health.

Throughout her storied career, Lauper has delivered unforgettable songs such as Time After Time and True Colors, and her ability to continue performing at 71 speaks to her enduring legacy in the music industry. Despite the negative attention, it’s clear that her fans remain fiercely loyal to the icon, embracing her unapologetic spirit and her defiance of societal expectations of ageing.

As Lauper’s Farewell Tour draws closer to its final leg, it’s evident that her place in music history is secure, and the support from her fans shows no signs of fading – regardless of the critics.