Billie Eilish was struck in the face by an object during her concert in Glendale, Arizona, on Friday, December 13. The Grammy-winning artist was performing her Oscar-winning track, What Was I Made For? from the Barbie movie soundtrack when the incident occurred.
The Moment of Impact
Videos shared on TikTok show Billie flinching and pausing her performance after being hit by what appeared to be a necklace or bracelet thrown from the crowd. Despite the interruption, Eilish quickly resumed singing, tossing the object aside as the audience voiced their disapproval of the act.
Audience Reaction and Fan Comments
As the object was thrown, some fans in the audience could be heard booing, with many expressing their anger on social media. One fan wrote on TikTok, “Why won’t people stop throwing things? Nine out of ten objects are rejected, so just wait till the end of the concert, and workers will collect them.”
A Longstanding Issue for Performers
This isn’t the first time that a performer has been hit with something thrown by a fan. Billie herself commented on the issue during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, recalling that she’s been getting hit with objects on stage for nearly six years. “People get excited, and it can be dangerous,” Eilish said, acknowledging her mixed feelings about it. “When you’re up there, it blows. But you know it’s out of love.”
Other Celebrities Have Experienced Similar Incidents
Billie is not alone in dealing with thrown objects during performances. In 2023, Bebe Rexha was struck by a phone during a concert, leading to an assault charge against the offender. Similarly, country star Kelsea Ballerini was hit by a bracelet while performing, and in a dramatic moment, stopped her show to regain composure.
Even Harry Styles, known for his fan-favorite concerts, has faced similar issues. In one incident from 2022, he was struck in the eye with Skittles.
The Growing Trend of Throwing Objects at Performers
The phenomenon of throwing objects at performers has become an increasing issue in the last year and a half. The trend has affected a wide range of artists, sparking concern about fan behavior and safety during live performances. Despite these risks, most artists continue to power through their shows, with support from their fans.
Billie’s Tour Continues
Eilish is currently on her Hit Me Hard and Soft tour in support of her latest album. Following her Arizona show, Billie will be performing in California this Sunday before taking the tour to Australia in February.