Gracie Abrams is addressing the petition circulating online calling to replace the opening act for her upcoming tour dates.
On Friday (January 24), it was announced that pop singer Dora Jar will be opening for the 25-year-old “Close to You” singer for her European and U.K. dates on her The Secret of Us Deluxe Tour in February and March.
After the news was announced, a fan petition popped up on Change.com calling for Dora, 28, to be replaced, according to Billboard.
Keep reading to find out more…Created under the name Dexter Morgan, the since-deleted petition read, “Many fans, including myself, are baffled by the recent announcement … We are perplexed as we do not recognize her, and with less than two weeks till the tour, it’s virtually impossible to familiarize ourselves with her slow-paced songs.”
“For a memorable concert experience, an opening act should set the mood and get the crowd excited, but Dora’s slow tempo songs may not achieve this goal,” the petition continued, suggesting that “a more well-known, energetic artist or band” be chosen as Gracie‘s opening act instead.
After the petition started gaining traction on social media, Gracie clapped back.
“Just hearing about this absolute ridiculousness… so wildly uncool and bizarre and also just does not remotely add up,” the Grammy-nominated singer commented on an Instagram post from Stereogum.
“I’ve only seen everyone’s total excitement and I couldn’t be luckier or prouder to share a stage with this talented wonder,” Gracie continued. “Stream everything she’s ever made whether or not you’re coming to the show. Dora forever and ever.”
Gracie doubled down on her support for Dora by reposting a screenshot of her comments on her Instagram Story, while adding, “Hi reiterating this and then dropping it. I am so excited to share a stage with this gem of an artist. Love you Dora ❤️”
Before Gracie voiced her support, Dora addressed the petition, writing on X, “Don’t worry this doesn’t bum me out! I’m hear [sic] to perform for all the music loving open hearted fans. Those who aren’t interested can go buy merch while I’m playing (but they might as well let me entertain them tho..;)) an overwhelming amount of fans have been so kind & excited.”
In a follow-up tweet, Dora joked, “signed the petition but rehearsing these songs just in case I remain the opener! Love u Dexter.”
She then wrote, “Hate comes with the job, the truth is this is the biggest outpouring of love I’ve ever received from a fanbase who is still unfamiliar with me. Gracie has beautiful open hearted fans and I am so excited for this🧳♥️”
You can check out all of Gracie Abrams‘ The Secret of Us Deluxe Tour dates and locations here.