In 2021, popular singer Sia faced backlash over her film Music, which she directed and co-wrote with Dallas Clayton. The movie tells the story of a nonverbal autistic girl named Music, played by Maddie Ziegler, who is looked after by her half-sister, who is a recovering addict. The film’s portrayal of autism and Sia’s choice to cast Ziegler, a neurotypical actor, as Music raised questions and criticisms.
Sia’s Music Casting Controversy
Sia had initially planned to cast an autistic actor but decided to go with Ziegler instead. When explaining her choice, Sia stated it was partly due to her close relationship with Ziegler, saying, “I can’t do a project without [her], I don’t want to.” This led some critics to accuse her of prioritizing her connection with Ziegler over authentic representation.
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Ziegler, who became known for her time on Dance Moms, had worked closely with Sia, starring in her music videos like Chandelier, Elastic Heart, and The Greatest. Their strong professional and personal relationship, with Ziegler often referring to Sia as a mother figure, was a focal point of media interest.
One of the most controversial aspects of Music was its use of scenes showing physical restraints, which many viewers found distressing. These scenes, along with the casting decision, led to negative reviews and criticism from both audiences and advocates within the autism community.
Following the backlash, Sia revealed in an interview with The New York Times that the intense criticism affected her deeply. She shared that she struggled emotionally, relapsed, and eventually sought help in rehab. While some fans showed support, others felt her response was an attempt to deflect criticism.
Despite the negative reactions to Music, Sia and Ziegler continue to work together and share a close bond.
