Gwen Stefani Faces Backlash from Queer Fans Over Promotion of Catholic App Hallow

Gwen Stefani, the 56-year-old singer known for hits like "Hollaback Girl" and her time with No Doubt, has reignited controversy by partnering with the Catholic prayer and meditation app Hallow for the Advent season. In a recent Instagram video and caption, Stefani urged followers to "download Hallow today and join me and millions of others in praying every day this Advent and Christmas season on Hallow." She described the app's "Pray25: Be Still" challenge as a way to "find stillness amidst the chaos and embrace peace even when our lives are so busy," tying it to the spiritual reflection of Advent.

This is not Stefani's first collaboration with Hallow . She previously promoted the app during Lent and Christmas in 2024, sharing personal testimony about rediscovering her faith after feeling she had "fallen away" during her music career's peak. "Feeling so desperate, I got on my knees, I asked God: 'Please, please get me well. Please use my gift of music again. Please let me be the person I used to be,'" she recounted in an earlier campaign. Hallow, launched in 2018 by CEO Alex Jones, Alessandro DiSanto, and Erich Kerekes, has gained prominence through celebrity endorsements from figures like Chris Pratt, Mark Wahlberg, and Jim Caviezel.

The backlash stems from Hallow's explicit pro-life stance. In 2023, CEO Alex Jones stated that Hallow "proudly and unequivocally" supports "the pro-life stance of the Church and the USCCB's affirmation of abortion as the preeminent priority." This position aligns with official Catholic teachings but has clashed with fans who support reproductive rights, particularly within LGBTQ+ communities where access to abortion care is often viewed as integral to bodily autonomy. Critics on social media expressed disappointment, with one fan writing, "Lots of your fans are from the LGBTQ+ community and this feels like a deep betrayal." Another commented, "I love you, Gwen but unfortunately I ain't no Hallow app girl." Actor and reality star Chrishell Stause, known from "Selling Sunset," added, "Gwen-DON'T SPEAK. Please take your own advice on this one." Additional reactions targeted the app's subscription model, with users noting, "God is free, Gwen. Touch some grass," and "Pay for pray is CRAZY WORK."

Stefani's history with her fanbase adds context to the outcry. She has long been celebrated by LGBTQ+ fans for her inclusive image and performances that resonated during the '90s and 2000s punk-pop scene. No Doubt's reunion is scheduled for May 2026, which may amplify scrutiny as fans anticipate new engagements. However, defenders, including commentator Kinsey Schofield on Sky News Australia, questioned the controversy, asking, "Why should personal faith be treated like a controversy?" Schofield emphasized that Stefani promotes "prayer and meditation" without endorsing abortion, drawing parallels to other pro-life celebrities like Jack Nicholson and Kelsey Grammer who do not publicize their views aggressively.

Hallow's own partnerships have not been immune to criticism. In 2023, the app collaborated with pro-choice advocate Liam Neeson, prompting backlash from conservative Catholics. Jones initially defended it as a way to reach "folks who have fallen away" from faith, but later called it a "mistake," citing lessons on "the sin of scandal" and "material cooperation with evil" in an interview with the National Catholic Register. This evolution underscores Hallow's navigation of cultural divides while maintaining its Catholic roots.

Within LGBTQ+ circles, reactions vary. Some fans feel the promotion undermines Stefani's allyship, given the Catholic Church's historical stances on issues affecting transgender people, gay individuals, and others in the community. Organizations like GLAAD have long critiqued faith-based initiatives that align with anti-abortion advocacy, arguing they can marginalize queer voices seeking inclusive spiritual spaces. One fan conceded, "Honestly never thought that you would be anti-abortion," reflecting personal disillusionment.

Others urge respect for Stefani's faith, noting her personal journey does not negate past support. As a bisexual icon in some queer narratives due to her style and music, Stefani occupies a complex space where faith and fandom intersect. The Independent contacted Stefani's representatives for comment, but no response was available at publication.

This incident highlights broader tensions between celebrity faith expressions and diverse fanbases. Stefani's promotion, framed around holiday peace, has instead sparked debate on faith, politics, and inclusivity for LGBTQ+ individuals. As Advent continues, the conversation persists online, with fans weighing loyalty against values.