Katy Perry Responds to Environmental Damage Claims Surrounding “Lifetimes” Music Video

Although nurturing a promising solo career in the music industry since the early 2000s, Katy Perry decided to step away from the studio to help judge American Idol. Somewhat putting her career on pause, the hitmaker decided to leave the show to return to the stage. And with a new album on the way – it appeared to be the perfect time. With it being nearly four years since she released a new album, Perry’s newest album, 143, will hit shelves on September 20. Already promoting songs like “Woman’s World” and “Lifetimes”, the pop star sits at the center of an investigation as authorities believed she had no permission to film on Spain’s Balearic Islands.

While getting back into the groove of the music industry, Perry’s music video for “Woman’s World” drew criticism from some fans who claimed it tailored to the male gaze. And now, with the music video for “Lifetimes” released, Perry is in trouble with the law. According to the Balearic Islands’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment, the production failed to get the proper permits to film on the islands. 

[RELATED: Katy Perry to Receive Video Vanguard Award at Upcoming 2024 MTV VMAs]

Katy Perry Insists Crew Received “Verbal Approval”

With an investigation surrounding the music video, a representative for Perry released a statement claiming the production had no idea. “The local video production company assured us that all necessary permits for the video were secure.” The statement continued, “We have since learned that one permit was in process, although we were given verbal authority to go ahead. Our local crew on July 22 applied for a permit for this specific location with the Directorate-General For Coasts And Coastline.”

While Perry’s representative suggested the crew filed the proper paperwork, the statement insisted, “Our crew received verbal approval on July 26 to proceed with the filming on July 27. We adhered to all regulations associated with filming in this area and have the utmost respect for this location and the officials tasked with protecting it.”  

Although juggling investigations and bad press, Perry continues to promote her new album, 143, which marks her return to the spotlight.

(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)