Doja Cat addresses criticism over James Bond Oscars performance

Doja Cat is speaking out after the negative response toward her James Bond tribute performance at the 2025 Oscars. 

The “Paint the Town Red” rapper and singer, 29, was one of multiple artists who participated in a dramatic medley in honor of the martini-drinking spy at Sunday’s event, delivering her take on Shirley Bassey’s “Diamonds Are Forever” from 007’s 1971 film of the same name. However, the internet, as always, was divided on her rendition, with some praising her “versatility” as an artist and others claiming that she “sounded flat” at times. 

Doja thanked the Academy for giving her the opportunity in an Instagram post on Monday. “I never get to sing like that and what I did was brave and scary as f— for me,” she wrote. “I know a lot of people didn’t like it but a lot of people did and I feel good that I pushed myself.”

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She also wasn’t afraid to admit that her nerves affected her performance. “The song is a classic and I put a lot of work into it but the nerves got to me and a bitch hit some flats,” Doja confessed. “I can’t wait to do something like that again. What a blessing that was. I feel amazing about the whole thing. Bye.”

Sunday night’s tribute to Bond was introduced by Die Another Day actress Halle Berry, and comes weeks after veteran Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli handed over control of the franchise to Amazon.

“I had the great pleasure of working with Barbara and Michael on Die Another Day. And let me tell you, they don’t just produce Bond movies, they were the heart and soul of the franchise for decades,” the actress said. “Every generation does have their Bond, you know? The world revolves — it evolves, and so does he. But that signature mix of danger, style, and intrigue…well, that’s timeless.”

In addition to Doja’s performance, the tribute was rounded out with Blackpink member Lisa’s rendition of “Live and Let Die,” originally sung by Sir Paul McCartney, and British singer-songwriter Raye’s version of Adele’s “Skyfall.” The Substance star Margaret Qualley also delivered a dance performance during the segment.

Check out the full list of Oscars winners here.