Doja Cat opens up: 'My borderline took its toll' and why she rushed to Chappell Roan's defence
You can't escape her at the moment: Doja Cat is firmly back in the spotlight. The singer, real name Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, is grabbing headlines not just in the music press, but in the gossip columns too. From a raw, unflinching interview about her mental health to fiercely defending a fellow artist from aggressive paparazzi. And to top it all off, she's soon to be immortalised in plastic as a Funko Pop. Time to take the pulse of one of the most fascinating artists around right now.
The diagnosis that shapes her life: 'It spiralled out of control'
In a conversation held via a slightly fuzzy video link from her living room in Los Angeles, Doja revealed a side fans rarely get to see. She spoke at length for the first time about her diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. "I thought I had a handle on it, but these last few months it's completely spiralled out of control," she confessed. No glittery dresses, no dance routines – just a young woman grappling with the intense mood swings that come with BPD. She explained how it puts a strain on her relationships, but also how it fuels her creativity. It's a vulnerability that makes her instantly human. It brings to mind Ariana Grande, who also isn't one to mince her words when it comes to mental health. Two powerhouse women showing that fame is no armour against emotional turmoil.
Knight in shining armour: 'Get away from Chappell!'
But Doja isn't solely focused on her own troubles. Last week, a video went viral 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 show in New York. Doja, who happened to be in the area, pushed her way through the crowd and snapped: "Leave her alone! Haven't you got any respect?" The clip received massive support on social media. It's entirely in keeping with Doja's character: she has a well-documented disdain for the predatory side of the entertainment industry. She seems to instinctively understand what Chappell is going through – that sudden fame, those ever-present lenses. It's not the first time she's stood 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 turn as host on Saturday Night Live last year, where she switched gears effortlessly in every sketch – from a frazzled beekeeper to an old-school rapper. That same versatility shines through in her music. Take 'Vie', for example, a gem from her latest album. A track that was inescapable on French radio and perfectly demonstrates how she blends sweet melodies with gritty lyrics. It's precisely this mix that makes her so irresistible to a wide audience. And now, a Doja Cat Funko Pop is on the horizon. Collectors, take note: the figure features that iconic red dress from the 2024 Grammys, complete with those ridiculously high sneakers. A collector's item, if you ask me.
Why are we all so captivated by Doja Cat? Because she's impossible to pin down. One day she's tearful about her BPD, the next she's dropping an infectious rap, and in between she's rescuing a colleague from the clutches of the press. In an era of focus-grouped content and polished personas, her rawness is a breath of fresh air. Whether she's on Saturday Night Live or headlining a sold-out show at the O2, 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 a store near you: 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 simply launching a new dance craze – we remain utterly captivated, watching and listening. I've certainly had her track Vie on repeat for weeks now.