Challenges Faced by Doja Cat: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 14, 2026

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Doja Cat's life and career.

Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, is a prominent American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Recognized as the "Queen of Pop-Rap," she is celebrated for her versatility, captivating live performances, and engaging online persona. Acknowledged by Billboard as a leading global pop star and a defining figure of contemporary pop music, Doja Cat was also listed as one of Time's most influential people in 2023, solidifying her impact on music and popular culture.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2015: Offensive Tweets

In 2015, Doja Cat posted tweets in which she referred to other performers as "faggots", which later resurfaced in 2018, leading to backlash and an apology.

2017: Previous Restraining Order

In 2017, Deborah Sawyer, Doja Cat's mother, was previously granted a restraining order against her son, Raman Dalithando Dlamini, prior to filing another one in January 2024.

2017: Declining Feature on Billie Eilish's "Bellyache"

In 2017, Doja Cat declined Billie Eilish's offer to feature on what would later become her popular single "Bellyache" due to experiencing writer's block.

Loading Video...

March 30, 2018: Release of Debut Album Amala

On March 30, 2018, Doja Cat's debut studio album Amala was released through RCA and Kemosabe Records, receiving little attention and failing to chart.

2018: NME's Milkshake Duck of the Year

In 2018, NME named Doja Cat Milkshake Duck of the year following public circulation of 2015 tweets where she referred to other performers as "faggots".

March 2020: Postponement of Hot Pink Tour

In March 2020, Doja Cat's Hot Pink Tour was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

March 2022: Expressions of Career Burnout

In March 2022, Doja Cat shared her experiences of career burnout, expressing disdain for "unnecessary" obligations and admitting she was no longer enjoying her career. During a South American festival tour, following an incident involving Paraguayan fans due to a cancelled show, she expressed her frustration and suggested she was quitting music.

May 2022: Nicotine Addiction and Health Issues

In May 2022, Doja Cat opened up about her nicotine addiction on Twitter, revealing she required lancing of an infected tonsil caused by vaping and planned a tonsillectomy, leading to cancellation of summer festival performances and opening for The Weeknd's tour.

2022: Controversy and Temporary Retirement Announcement

In 2022, Doja Cat faced significant controversy after not greeting fans at her hotel following a cancelled performance. This led to her announcing she was quitting the music industry, though she later retracted the statement. She faced similar backlash after a Threads post about not owing fans her love, resulting in a substantial loss of Instagram followers.

January 2024: Restraining Order Filed by Mother

In January 2024, Doja Cat's mother, Deborah Sawyer, filed for a temporary restraining order against her son, Raman Dalithando Dlamini, due to alleged physical and verbal abuse against both Doja Cat and their mother.