Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Grimes

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 10, 2025

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Grimes.

Claire Elise Boucher, known as Grimes, is a Canadian musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Her music and visuals frequently incorporate science fiction and feminist themes. Known for her unique artistic style and experimental approach, Grimes has released five studio albums, showcasing her diverse talents in music production and performance.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

2012: Intense Drug Use during Visions Creation

In 2012, Grimes revealed periods of intense drug use during the creation of her third album Visions, involving amphetamine use and sleep deprivation.

April 2013: Addressed Sexism in the Music Industry

In April 2013, Grimes posted a written statement addressing her experience as a female musician as rife with sexism and expressed disappointment that her feminist stance was often interpreted as anti-male.

2015: Frustration with Being Labeled a Feminist Musician

In 2015, Grimes expressed frustration with being identified as a feminist musician, stating that it "really genders [her]" in a way that she does not identify with.

2018: Discomfort with the word 'woman'

In 2018, Grimes made a post on Twitter stating that she is "personally put off by the word 'woman' at least as far as my self id".

2018: Accusations of bullying and NDA abuse

In 2018, Poppy accused Grimes of "bullying songwriters into signing NDA[s]".

2021: Called Herself Female-ish

In 2021, Grimes called herself "female-ish".

June 2023: Comments on the Patriarchy

In June 2023, Grimes stated, "I kinda like the patriarchy," and clarified that if women are not included, it can become toxic.

September 2023: Reports of another son and lawsuit over parental rights

In September 2023, reports surfaced that Grimes and Elon Musk had another son. Later that month, Grimes sued Musk over parental rights to their children in California.

2023: Controversial statements on race and culture

In 2023, Grimes responded to criticism about her affiliations with far-right figures by expressing pride in "white culture," stating she wished to "emphasize the incredible accomplishments of others ... whilst allowing pride for white ppl accomplishments as well". She also referenced Cyrus the Great. This statement was widely criticized, with some accusing her of using rhetoric similar to that used to oppress people of color. She later attended Curtis Yarvin's wedding. This event can be pinpointed to 2023.