The premiere of the documentary “Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery” on Disney+ scheduled for Sept. 21 faced a setback as Sarah McLachlan withdrew from performing, citing her support for free speech. McLachlan expressed concerns about the current situation, highlighting the challenges faced by women, transgender individuals, and the LGBTQ+ community. The documentary narrates the story of the pioneering music festival she established in 1997.
This decision by McLachlan came shortly after ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel and his show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following controversial comments about MAGA supporters post the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist known for his opposition to transgender rights and fundraising efforts against transgender medical care. The fallout from Kimmel’s suspension led to a boycott of Disney, resulting in crashing Disney+ website and a decline in the company’s stock value. ABC News Studios, a Disney subsidiary, is responsible for distributing the “Lilith Fair” documentary in the United States.
Despite expectations of surprise performances by McLachlan, Jewel, and potentially Olivia Rodrigo, they were canceled in solidarity with the free speech movement. McLachlan emphasized the importance of artists and individuals working collectively towards a more inclusive and harmonious future. The documentary had its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival and is now accessible for streaming on CBC Gem.
