Irish singer CMAT, known by her real name Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson, has experienced a remarkable ascent to global recognition, marked by a watershed performance at Glastonbury’s iconic Pyramid Stage. Her captivating stage presence and candid persona have quickly cemented her status as a breakout artist, drawing massive crowds and capturing the attention of millions. This meteoric rise, however, has also thrust her into the harsh spotlight of public scrutiny, forcing her to confront the darker realities of fame and celebrity culture, particularly concerning online abuse and body image.
Thompson’s Glastonbury appearance was a pivotal moment, transforming her from a beloved cult figure to a mainstream sensation. Announcing herself with characteristic wit and confidence, she commanded an audience of tens of thousands, a testament to her burgeoning appeal. This significant exposure, amplified by a vast television audience, signaled an undeniable breakthrough for an artist whose dedicated fanbase, including industry giants like Elton John and Charli XCX, had been steadily growing for years within the music industry.
Beyond her musical prowess, CMAT has consistently used her platform for strong political and social statements. Her unwavering support for causes, notably the “free Palestine” movement, has seen her withdraw from major festivals in protest against sponsorships linked to contentious arms companies. This commitment to her beliefs, even at personal career cost, showcases a profound integrity that resonates deeply with her audience and sets her apart in the entertainment landscape.
Her journey to widespread acclaim was not an overnight phenomenon; it was a decade-long grind built on relentless live performances and a profound connection with her audience. Thompson believes in the arduous, grassroots approach to building a fanbase, emphasizing that genuine connection comes from consistent engagement. This dedication to her craft and her fans laid the essential groundwork for her eventual explosion into the public consciousness, a testament to her resilient artistic spirit.
The release of her song, “Whatever’s Comfortable,” became another turning point, its catchy melody artfully disguising a powerful message about societal expectations placed on women’s physical appearance. The song’s viral success, fueled by a popular TikTok dance, propelled it to over 11 million streams, demonstrating CMAT’s ability to blend insightful social commentary with commercial appeal. This track specifically brought conversations about body image and the pressures of celebrity into the mainstream dialogue.
Despite her outward humour and resilience, the pervasive online abuse targeting Thompson’s physical appearance has taken a significant toll. The severity of the trolling reached a point where the BBC had to disable comments on her performance videos, highlighting the abhorrent nature of the attacks. Even after releasing “Whatever’s Comfortable,” intended to address these very issues, the volume of abuse only intensified, leading her to openly question whether the world solely perceives her as “an ugly fat person.”
Remarkably, Thompson often extends empathy to her detractors, attributing their vitriol to broader societal issues like economic hardship. Her candor extends to her own turbulent past, including struggles with mental health and eating disorders during her early adulthood, which saw her drop out of university before finding her path in music. Today, buoyed by a deeply loyal fanbase who celebrate her authenticity and unconventional style, CMAT continues to navigate the complexities of fame with courage, inspiring others with her raw honesty about the challenges of being a public figure and her continued impact on celebrity culture.
