Olivia Rodrigo shared a candid — and decidedly unglamorous — behind-the-scenes anecdote about extreme fan dedication during a recent radio appearance promoting her new album.
In a mid-June interview on KISS FM UK’s Breakfast show with hosts Tyler West and Chloe Burrows, the pop star discussed unusual concert experiences while appearing to promote her third studio album, You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love. When the conversation touched on bathroom-related stories, Rodrigo recounted observing fans using adult diapers to maintain prime positions at shows without leaving the barricade.
“I can’t think of anything for myself. But I have been to certain concerts and certain festivals where people wear diapers so that they can be front row of the show, and that’s been an experience as a performer that I have smelled,” she said.
Rodrigo elaborated that she has spotted signs at her own concerts referencing the practice, including variations of “Wearing diapers for the front row,” and drew a comparison to dedicated New Year’s Eve revelers who camp out all day in Times Square. She also referenced addressing the topic during her 2025 BST Hyde Park performance in London.
The hosts reacted with shock, with West describing it as “insane behavior” and Burrows expressing disbelief. Rodrigo delivered the observation with a mix of amusement and horror, framing it as part of the intense realities of performing close to highly committed crowds.
The phenomenon is not isolated to Rodrigo’s fanbase, known as “Livies.” It has been noted at various high-demand concerts and festivals, where fans arrive hours or even a full day early, stake out spots near the stage, and use absorbent products like adult diapers to avoid relinquishing their positions during long waits or extended sets. Similar reports have emerged from other major tours, including Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.
Rodrigo’s comments, which explicitly refer to fans choosing the tactic for convenience rather than medical necessity, quickly went viral across social media, generating a wave of reactions ranging from disgust and memes to debates about the boundaries of fan culture.
While the singer presented the story lightheartedly during her album promo cycle — without directly criticizing her supporters — the anecdote underscores the physical and less-glamorous side of live performances for artists interacting closely with barricade crowds, particularly in summer heat.
You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love, released earlier this month via Geffen/Interscope, continues Rodrigo’s streak as one of pop’s most compelling voices. The project follows her Grammy-winning albums Sour and Guts.
