Reneé Rapp Credits Mother for Pop Star Name, Debuts New Single

Reneé Rapp revealed on Amy Poehler's Good Hang podcast that her mother deliberately chose her alliterative name to help her succeed as a pop star, a decision Rapp now greatly appreciates. She discussed her journey with identity, sharing how she publicly came out as a lesbian on Saturday Night Live, changing a sketch line from "bisexual" to "lesbian," which she described as empowering and affirming. Rapp recently debuted her new single "Leave Me Alone" at the American Music Awards, a song addressing frustrations with fame and referencing her exit from the HBO Max series The Sex Lives of College Girls. Beyond music, Rapp's background includes starring in the Broadway and film versions of Mean Girls, with her sophomore album Bite Me set for release in August 2025. Her parents, particularly her father Charles, were known to be demanding and competitive, encouraging her to improve her vocal performances. Overall, Rapp embraces her sensitive and passionate nature, recognizing how it informs her artistry and public persona.