Taylor Swift has sparked debate with the cover of her upcoming album The Life of a Showgirl, out October 3. The artwork, revealed during Travis Kelce’s podcast, shows her partly submerged in water wearing glittering showgirl attire. Swift explained it represents “everything going on behind the curtain” of her Eras Tour, adding, “The show is dazzling, but behind it there are tears, exhaustion, and sacrifices.”

While many praised the bold concept, critics called it “inappropriate” and said Swift should project a “cleaner” image as a role model for young fans. Some argued the showgirl theme reinforced stereotypes of hypersexualized performance.

Her fans quickly defended her, stressing artistic freedom. “She’s 35, not 15,” one wrote. “She doesn’t need to live up to anyone else’s moral standard.” Others reminded critics of her philanthropy and argued showgirl imagery also symbolizes endurance and artistry.

Supporters noted Swift’s covers have always been symbolic, from folklore to Lover, and see this one as reflecting both “the glitter and the grit” of her career.

As one fan summed it up: “If Taylor Swift can’t dress how she wants at 35, after everything she’s accomplished, then who can?”