American rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine is facing intense criticism, after making controversial comments about singer Demi Lovato’s sobriety during a recent podcast appearance.
On the November 4 episode of YouTube host Andie Elle’s show, 6ix9ine remarked that Lovato was “gonna relapse” and even insinuated he could help—by sending her illicit drugs. (He later defended his statement as “dark humor,” adding that people today are overly sensitive.)
The backlash on social media was swift and severe. On X (formerly Twitter), users condemned the comments as “horrible” and “disrespectful,” pointing out the pain and risk behind recovery. One poster wrote: “I didn’t find nothing funny about this… she was this close to dying.” Another added: “You don’t joke about relapse.”
Demi’s Recovery Journey
Lovato’s sobriety journey is well documented. In July 2018, she suffered a near-fatal drug overdose that caused three strokes and a heart attack—traumatic events she has openly discussed while advocating for mental-health and substance-use awareness.
Why It Matters
Recovery from substance-use disorders is a fragile, ongoing process. According to treatment providers, even a single misstep can trigger significant setbacks—both physically and psychologically. Public figures making light of relapse risk only deepen stigma and hinder broader efforts to support healing.
Experts say society must approach addiction and sobriety with empathy and seriousness. Mocking or trivializing the struggle damages not just individuals, but the communities striving to uplift them. With the U.S. still grappling with a serious opioid and substance-use crisis, promoting respectful discourse around treatment and recovery is essential.
Looking Ahead
At time of writing, Lovato’s team had not issued a response. Meanwhile, 6ix9ine remains unapologetic, repeating that “dark humor” is valid and that critics are “too soft.” The public uproar sparked by one comment highlights how public commentary can influence society’s perceptions of recovery in profound ways.