Chappell Roan Accidentally Drops F-Bomb While Inducting Cyndi Lauper into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Chappell Roan had an unforgettable moment at the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony after accidentally dropping an f-bomb live on stage.
The 27-year-old “Pink Pony Club” singer was on hand to induct Cyndi Lauper, 72, into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 8, when a small teleprompter mishap led to a hilarious and unplanned slip-up.
“I think we can all agree that the best art comes from the most authentic people,” Roan began, wearing a replica of the colorful skirt Lauper famously wore in her “True Colors” music video. As she squinted to read the teleprompter, she blurted, “I f—,” before gasping and covering her mouth.
The crowd erupted in laughter and applause as Roan quickly joked, “I messed up so bad by refusing to get contacts. Holy cow.”
After the brief interruption, Roan continued her heartfelt tribute:
“It’s that courage that not only creates incredible art, it gives everyone permission to be themselves. It opens hearts, it changes minds, and that is its power. Tonight, we honor a woman who redefined what a pop star could look like, sound like, and be — the amazing and fabulous Cyndi Lauper.”
Following Roan’s introduction, Lauper took the stage to deliver an emotional acceptance speech and perform a medley of her greatest hits, including “True Colors,” “Time After Time,” and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” She was joined by Avril Lavigne and Salt-n-Pepa, who helped make the tribute one of the night’s standout performances.
During her speech, Lauper reflected on her decades-long career and her belief in music’s power to bring people together.
“I stand on the shoulders of the women who came before me, and my shoulders are broad enough for the women who come after me,” she said. “The little kid in me still believes that rock and roll can save the world. Now, of all times, let’s come together and do good — because the world needs us.”
Lauper previously told Rolling Stone that being inducted was “humbling,” sharing that she was touched to know how many women voted for her inclusion. “You just hope you can live up to their expectations,” she said.
Roan’s charming slip-up became one of the night’s viral moments, reminding fans why live television — just like rock and roll — is always unpredictable.
