Canadian pop sensation Tate McRae has found herself at the center of a heated debate, and it’s not about her latest chart-topping hit. In a move that’s left many Canadians scratching their heads, McRae starred in an NBC Olympics ad where she openly cheers for Team USA instead of her home country. But here’s where it gets controversial: just days after being announced as a leading nominee at the 2026 Juno Awards, the Calgary-born singer is now facing backlash for seemingly siding with the American team. And this is the part most people miss—while some fans are celebrating this as a career milestone, others are questioning her loyalty to Canada.
In the ad, set against a snowy mountain backdrop, McRae seeks guidance from an owl to make it to Milan for the Olympics opening ceremony. Her mission? To support Team USA, not Team Canada. She enthusiastically highlights the weekend’s events, including America’s top skaters vying for gold and Lindsey Vonn’s highly anticipated comeback. The ad also slyly promotes her latest single, Nobody’s Girl, adding a layer of career advancement to the mix.
Social media erupted with mixed reactions. Toronto-based sports content creator Jordan Cicchelli expressed his disappointment on X, stating, ‘Tate McRae doing a promo for NBC and Team USA for the Olympics and not Canada has me a bit sad but okay.’ Independent media company Made in Canada joined the chorus, openly questioning McRae’s decision. Even Virgin Radio Toronto hosts Daryn Jones and Deepa Prashad weighed in, with Prashad bluntly asking, ‘Do they not have an American who could be in that ad?’ Jones added a personal touch, reminding McRae that the Olympics once took place in her hometown of Calgary, and asked, ‘Is there no national pride?’
But is Tate McRae a ‘sellout’ for this move? Prashad’s question cuts deep and has sparked a broader conversation about artists’ allegiances and career choices. Not everyone is upset, though. Some fans are cheering her on, like one who posted, ‘Tate McRae doing promo for the Super Bowl and the Winter Olympics. Oh, the Canadian princess of pop is here.’
This isn’t the first time an international artist has faced such scrutiny. In November, British pop star Dua Lipa faced similar backlash for appearing in an NBC Olympics ad promoting American athletes. Yet, the question remains: Should artists prioritize national pride over career opportunities? Or is this simply a strategic move to expand their global reach?
CBC Music has reached out to McRae’s team for comment, but the debate rages on. Is Tate McRae’s decision a betrayal of her roots, or a smart career move? We want to hear from you—share your thoughts in the comments below!
