Ariana Madix Macy’s Parade Lip Sync Controversy Sparks Mixed Reactions
3 min readAriana Madix, widely recognized as the host of Love Island USA and a star on Vanderpump Rules, made her debut at the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Performing a rendition of The Cardigans’ Lovefool on the Peacock float, the 39-year-old brought her signature charm to the event. However, her performance quickly became a topic of heated debate on social media, with fans questioning whether she lip-synced during the televised event.
Ariana Madix absolutely crushed it at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on the official Peacock float!!#MacysThanksgivingDayParade ❤️ pic.twitter.com/DF62tadJaz
— Megan 🦋 (@meganmesmile) November 28, 2024
The Lip-Sync Allegations
While Madix showcased a cheerful stage presence, critics on social platforms like X (formerly Twitter) accused her of an obvious lip-sync. Comments ranged from sharp criticism to outright dismissal of her performance:
“Ariana Madix lip-syncing for her life,” one user quipped.
“Who at NBC signed off on Ariana Madix lip-syncing a ’90s song? It was way too obvious,” another chimed in.
“You could tell Ariana was lip-syncing because she wasn’t whining through the microphone,” one user added sarcastically.
Criticism also extended to her song choice, with some fans feeling that Lovefool wasn’t the best fit for her vocal style.
I’m excited for her staying booked and busy! Buuuuttt the song choice was weird and the fact that ya know she obviously lip synced the whole thing 🙈 ehh
— Michelle (@shelbells2) November 28, 2024
That lip syncing was tragic
— Titi (@TitiRGlitz) November 28, 2024
Support from Fans and Clarifications from Macy’s
Amid the criticism, many fans came to Madix’s defense. Supporters praised her performance, focusing on her ability to bring energy and flair to the event.
“Ariana Madix absolutely crushed it at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on the official Peacock float!” one fan wrote.
“I love her more and more. She’s better off without #PumpRules,” another fan added, referring to her ties to Vanderpump Rules.
In response to the backlash, Macy’s issued a statement addressing technical difficulties during the event:
She looked great and loved the confidence. Hope this leads to more work!
— Becky Reese (@BR442519) November 28, 2024
She did good…. She lip synced very well… lol … That’s all I got… lol
— Trish (@Trish14812818) November 28, 2024
“During today’s NBC broadcast of the #MacysParade several recording artists experienced technical difficulties that negatively impacted their performance. We apologize and want fans to know these issues were out of the artist’s control.”
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This clarification provided some context for the lip-syncing allegations, as technical issues are often a reason behind pre-recorded performances at live events.
The Macy’s parade appearance caps off a monumental year for Madix, who also competed on Dancing with the Stars and continues to make headlines after a high-profile breakup on Vanderpump Rules. Meanwhile, Lisa Vanderpump has hinted at major cast changes for the show, signaling a potential shake-up in the reality star’s career trajectory.
While Ariana Madix’s Macy’s parade debut may have sparked controversy, it also highlighted her growing influence and versatility as an entertainer. Whether fans were drawn to her performance or her resilience amidst critique, one thing is clear: Ariana Madix knows how to stay in the spotlight.