This week, Alberta’s Tate McRae faced backlash following her appearance in an NBC advertisement featuring the 2026 U.S. Winter Olympics team. The 22-year-old musician responded to the criticism on Instagram after being accused of favoring the United States over Canada.
In the NBC ad, McRae is depicted on a mountain in a red ski outfit, conversing with an owl near a sign post for the Olympic co-host city of Cortina.
“I’m excited to go to Milan for the spectacular opening ceremony and support Team USA,” McRae mentions in the ad. “Then it’s on to the weekend, witnessing America’s top athletes competing for gold, including Lindsey Vonn’s remarkable comeback. Finally, back to the States for the Super Bowl LX.”
Concerns were raised in the comment section of McRae’s Instagram post and across various social media platforms regarding her allegiance. Canadian actor Jack Innanen criticized her for endorsing the U.S. on an international platform amid strained relations between the two countries.
Canadian pop culture commentator Liz Duff noted that the response to McRae’s involvement in the ad is intensified due to the current tensions between Canada and the U.S., including trade disputes and cultural distinctions.
Despite now residing in Los Angeles, McRae, originally from Calgary, had built her early career around her Canadian identity, which further fueled the disappointment among fans following her endorsement of Team USA.
Canadian popstar Tate McRae received criticism for her involvement in a Milano Cortina commercial seemingly supporting Team USA. CBC’s Griffin Jaeger explains the negative reactions from some fans.
Duff highlighted the significant age factor in the situation, pointing out that both McRae and Innanen’s responses reflect a new trend among Gen Z personalities and their followers in the realm of pop culture.
McRae’s management team did not immediately provide a response when contacted by CBC News for comments.
