Fans aren’t holding back after Jewel’s controversial performance—now she’s speaking out.
Jewel wants her fans to know she’s “so sorry” after facing major backlash for performing at Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s inauguration day ball. The 50-year-old singer took to Instagram to explain why she decided to take part in the event, insisting that her motivation was to spotlight the ongoing mental health crisis in the U.S.
Jewel’s Defense: ‘Mental Health Affects Everyone’
In a heartfelt video message, the Foolish Games singer expressed her long-standing commitment to mental health advocacy. “As many of you know, I am a mental health advocate. If there’s anything that I’ve learned in the past 20 years, it’s that mental health affects everybody’s lives across party lines,” she said.
Jewel performed Somewhere Over the Rainbow at the Make America Healthy Again event, explaining that she had reached out to previous administrations, including speaking with the Surgeon General, to address the mental health crisis.
“I don’t know if you guys know the stats, but it is bleak,” she added.
Taking Action Over Politics
The singer acknowledged that some fans might not agree with her choices but stressed that waiting for perfect conditions to take action isn’t realistic.
“If I wait to try until I agree 100% with the people that might be willing to help me, I’d never get off the bench,” Jewel explained. “I don’t think that’s how activism works. It’s because things are so imperfect that we have to engage now.”
She went on to say that despite differing political views, there were members of Donald Trump’s administration who were willing to work on mental health initiatives, adding, “If I can help shape policy, make sure mental health is in the conversation… I’m going to try.”
Fans React with Outrage
Despite her intentions, fans took to social media to slam Jewel for participating in the event, with one person commenting, “She better get her jobs from MAGA because she is canceled.” Another critic chimed in, “Reviving a faded career seems to be a popular theme with Trump supporters.”
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The backlash didn’t stop there—many accused Jewel of seeking relevance, with one fan writing, “What is it about MAGA that attracts all the washed-up celebrities looking for attention?”
Jewel’s Apology and Moving Forward
The singer acknowledged the backlash, apologizing to her fans while emphasizing that she remains committed to her cause.
“You’ve made my life a better place, and I will not stop fighting,” Jewel stated. “None of us can afford to stop fighting, and I really believe that the only way we can change is in relationship.”
She further encouraged her followers to push through their differences and engage in difficult conversations rather than isolating themselves.
Kevin Costner Drama Continues
As if the public scrutiny wasn’t enough, Jewel is also reportedly dealing with personal drama following her split from Yellowstone star Kevin Costner. The two were said to have dated in 2024, but sources claim Costner is still hung up on her.
An insider revealed, “He really had high hopes of settling down with her, but nothing he does seems to work. His friends think it’s pathetic, but after he has a drink or two, he still thinks anything is possible.”
The source added, “No one would blame him for feeling down and wanting to call Jewel late at night, drink in hand, but he’s really not doing himself any favors.”
What’s Next for Jewel?
Despite the controversy, Jewel remains focused on her activism and music. Whether fans will forgive and forget remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure—she’s not backing down anytime soon.
Stay tuned for more updates on Jewel’s journey and her ongoing fight for mental health awareness.
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