The Cost of Fame: Adam Lambert on Enduring Criticism and the Four Words of Comfort from Sam Smith

In the dazzling world of fame and music, success often walks hand in hand with scrutiny. For global star Adam Lambert, that balance has been a lifelong challenge. The acclaimed vocalist—celebrated for both his powerhouse solo work and his electrifying performances as frontman for Queen—recently opened up about the emotional toll of public criticism and the simple phrase from a friend that helped him persevere.

A Career Built on Courage and Creativity

Lambert first rose to prominence in 2009 as the runner-up on American Idol, captivating audiences with his exceptional vocal range and fearless stage presence. But with visibility came relentless judgment. Reflecting on his journey, Lambert admitted, “I struggle to embrace” the endless scrutiny that accompanies his career, revealing he’s endured “over 100 criticisms”—both public and private—since his rise to stardom.

The wave of criticism began early. Following his debut single “For Your Entertainment” and his daring performance at the 2009 American Music Awards, Lambert found himself at the center of a media storm. The Parents Television Council reportedly received more than 1,500 complaints about the broadcast, while some outlets even censored his appearances. It was a formative moment that exposed Lambert to the stark reality of how creative expression can provoke controversy—and how challenging it can be to weather that reaction.

Finding Perspective Through Friendship

Years later, in the midst of ongoing pressure, Lambert received an unexpected source of reassurance from a kindred spirit—fellow artist Sam Smith. Known for their soulful voice and open discussions about identity, Smith has faced their own share of intense public criticism. Their simple yet profound advice to Lambert came in just four words:

“It’s not about you.”

Those words, Lambert explained, became a turning point. They reminded him that much of the negativity directed toward artists often stems from other people’s insecurities, misconceptions, or discomfort with change—not from the artist’s own shortcomings.

For Lambert, that perspective helped him shift from self-blame to self-acceptance, understanding that not every harsh opinion deserves space in his mind.

Solidarity and Strength in Shared Experience

The connection between Lambert and Smith goes beyond words of comfort. When Smith publicly announced their nonbinary identity in 2019, they faced waves of debate and misunderstanding. Lambert stood by them, calling their openness a moment that “broke through the ceiling” for representation in the music industry and urging fans and media alike to approach such journeys with empathy.

That shared understanding of what it means to live authentically in a spotlight that often amplifies criticism has forged a powerful bond between the two artists.

A Lesson Beyond the Spotlight

Lambert’s story is more than a reflection on fame—it’s a lesson in emotional endurance. His acknowledgment of vulnerability shows that even those who appear fearless on stage face doubts behind the scenes. And Sam Smith’s simple phrase, “It’s not about you,” offers a reminder to anyone facing judgment or misunderstanding: sometimes the harshest voices say more about the world than they do about us.

In a culture quick to critique, Adam Lambert’s honesty stands as both a confession and an inspiration—proof that resilience often begins with empathy, understanding, and the courage to keep singing through the noise.