# Controversies involving Zara Larsson

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/controversies-involving-zara-larsson
> Updated: 2026-10-08T07:09:25.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 2.

Swedish singer Zara Larsson has faced public criticism following comments made during an appearance on the Las Culturistas podcast. Larsson stated that she expects her employees to be able to perform a specific facial expression associated with adult content to demonstrate they are ‘carefree’ and ‘silly’ enough to work with her, noting that those unable to do so would be fired.

Social media users have responded by labeling the requirement as workplace harassment. During the same appearance, Larsson also discussed her creative process, explaining her decision to decline a full album collaboration with producer Max Martin to avoid feeling ‘a little bit smaller’ and losing her own creative voice.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-08: Zara Larsson faces controversy over employee requirements and Max Martin collaboration

Zara Larsson faces backlash after suggesting she fires employees who cannot perform a specific facial expression, while also explaining her decision to avoid collaborating with producer Max Martin.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zara-larsson-faces-controversy-over-employee-requirements-and-max-martin-collaboration

### 2026-09-17: Zara Larsson criticizes White House for using song in ICE video

Swedish singer Zara Larsson criticized the White House for using her song ‘Midnight Sun’ in a TikTok video depicting ICE deportation raids, calling the content ‘dehumanising’.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zara-larsson-criticizes-white-house-for-using-her-song-in-immigration-video

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Cite as: Controversies involving Zara Larsson. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/controversies-involving-zara-larsson