Rodrigo backs Cornell accuser; Kelly tells her to stay quiet
Olivia Rodrigo has publicly supported the woman suing Cornell University over an alleged gang rape, a statement that drew direct criticism from broadcaster Megyn Kelly.
Rodrigo said: “Shame on Cornell and on every institution who protects rapists and abusers over women.” She added: “I stand with Jane Doe.” The comments were reported by Billboard on Oct. 6.
Kelly answered on the Oct. 5 episode of her YouTube show. She told Rodrigo to “Shut up and stick to singing.” She also said: “Sit down and be quiet” and “Be quiet. The adults are talking.”
The case centres on a lawsuit filed by a woman identified as Jane Doe against Cornell University and seven then-members of the Chi Phi fraternity, a US student organisation with shared housing. The suit concerns an alleged gang rape in October 2024.
Doe claims she was given alcohol and drugs, including ketamine, before she was allegedly assaulted for hours while unable to consent. She further alleges that she brought her account to university officials two years ago and that Cornell failed to protect her or deliver justice.
The former Chi Phi members named in the suit have denied wrongdoing in connection with the allegations.
Rodrigo is not the only performer to back Doe. Actor Florence Pugh and Halestorm singer Lzzy Hale have also expressed support, according to the same report.
Kelly’s remarks were published in a YouTube video titled “Megyn Kelly UNLOADS on Olivia Rodrigo's Uninformed 'Cornell 7' Take: 'Shut Up and Stick To Singing'” on Oct. 5.
