Ethel Cain Addresses Racism, Abuse Allegations Amid Online Backlash

Ethel Cain, born Hayden Anhedönia, has issued a lengthy apology and statement addressing resurfaced racist social media posts and other serious accusations just weeks before the release of her new album, Willoughby Tucker, I’ll Always Love You. She acknowledged using racist language, including the n-word, and making inflammatory remarks like “build that wall,” explaining that these comments were made when she was 19 and part of a phase marked by rebellion and a desire for attention within an online subculture. Cain expressed deep remorse for her past actions and emphasized her intention to use her platform positively moving forward, while also acknowledging she cannot fully understand the impact of her words. Alongside the racist comments, accusations of promoting incest, abuse, child pornography, and bestiality were raised, which Cain vehemently denied, attributing some allegations to a targeted smear campaign involving hacking and harassment of her and her family. She highlighted the emotional toll of these attacks but remained focused on accountability and growth, asking for understanding and validating any feelings people might have towards her. The controversy has sparked widespread discussion on social media, coinciding with Cain’s rising profile as a transgender artist breaking Billboard records.