Doja Cat Gets Candid: 'My Borderline Broke Me' and Why She Stepped In to Help Chappell Roan
You can't escape her at the moment: Doja Cat is well and truly back in the spotlight. The singer, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, is grabbing headlines not just for her music, but for her moves in the celebrity gossip columns too. From a raw, unfiltered interview about her mental health to stepping in like a pitbull to shield a fellow artist from intrusive paparazzi. And soon, she'll be immortalised in plastic as a Funko Pop. Time to check in with one of the most fascinating artists on the scene right now.
The diagnosis that shapes her life: 'It got out of hand'
In a conversation over a fuzzy video link from her LA living room, Doja revealed a side fans rarely get to see. She spoke at length for the first time about her diagnosis with borderline personality disorder. "I thought I had it under control, but the last few months it just spiralled completely out of hand," she admitted. No glittery gowns, no dance routines – just a young woman grappling with the intense mood swings that come with BPD. She explained how it puts pressure on her relationships, but also how it fuels her creativity. It's a vulnerability that makes her instantly relatable. It brings to mind Ariana Grande, who's also never been one to shy away from talking about mental health. Two powerhouses proving that fame isn't a shield against emotional turmoil.
Knight in shining armour: 'Leave Chappell alone!'
But Doja isn't just wrapped up in her own struggles. A video went viral last week showing her literally stepping in to defend Chappell Roan. The rising star, known for her hit 'Good Luck, Babe!', was swarmed by photographers after a New York show. Doja, who happened to be nearby, pushed her way through the crowd and snapped, "Leave her alone! Haven't you got an ounce of respect?" The clip was met with overwhelming support on social media. It's so on-brand for Doja: she's got zero tolerance for the predatory side of the entertainment industry. She instinctively gets what Chappell is going through – that sudden fame, those ever-present lenses. It's not the first time she's stuck up for an underdog, and it certainly won't be the last.
From SNL comedy to collector's item
Let's not forget the lighter side of Doja Cat either. Everyone's still talking about her stint as host on Saturday Night Live last year, where she effortlessly switched gears in every sketch – from a stressed-out beekeeper to an old-school rapper. That same versatility comes through in her music. Take 'Vie', for example, a gem from her latest album. A track that was glued to French radio for ages and perfectly showcases how she blends sweet melodies with gritty lyrics. It's that very mix that makes her irresistible to a broad audience. And now, there's a Doja Cat Funko Pop on the way. Collectors, take note: the figurine features that iconic red Grammy 2024 dress paired with those ridiculously high sneakers. A true collector's item, if you ask me.
Why are we all so captivated by Doja Cat? Because you just can't pin her down. One day she's crying over her borderline, the next she's dropping an infectious rap, and in between, she's rescuing a colleague from the claws of the press. In an era of focus-grouped, polished personas, her rawness is a breath of fresh air. Whether she's on Saturday Night Live or headlining a sold-out show at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena, she never fails to surprise us.
Doja Cat at a glance
- Real name: Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini
- Diagnosis: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
- Biggest hits: 'Say So', 'Kiss Me More', 'Paint the Town Red'
- Latest move: Defended Chappell Roan from paparazzi
- Coming soon to stores: Doja Cat Funko Pop figure
In short: Doja Cat remains one of the most intriguing artists of her generation. Whether she's battling her inner demons, supporting a colleague, or just launching a new dance craze – we're all glued, watching and listening. Her track Vie has been on heavy rotation at my place for weeks, anyway.