On April 14, 2025, Blue Origin launched its first all-female crew into space aboard the New Shepard rocket. The mission included singer Katy Perry, journalist Gayle King, philanthropist Lauren Sánchez, former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, bioastronautics expert Amanda Nguyen, and producer Kerianne Flynn. While the flight was hailed by some as a milestone for women’s representation in space exploration, it also attracted criticism from several celebrities who questioned its purpose and environmental impact.
Olivia Wilde’s Sarcastic Commentary
Actress and director Olivia Wilde expressed her disapproval through a sarcastic Instagram Story. She shared a meme of Katy Perry kissing the ground post-landing, captioned: “Getting off a commercial flight in 2025 #BlueOrigin.” Wilde added a biting remark: “Billion dollars bought some good memes, I guess,” highlighting her view that the mission was an extravagant publicity stunt rather than a meaningful achievement.
Other Celebrity Criticisms
Wilde was not alone in her skepticism. Model and actress Emily Ratajkowski took to TikTok to label the mission as “beyond parody,” criticizing the use of substantial resources for an 11-minute spaceflight amidst global crises. She questioned the environmental cost and the message it sends about privilege and exploitation. Actress Olivia Munn also voiced her concerns during an appearance on “Today with Jenna and Friends,” describing the mission as “gluttonous.” She emphasized the disparity between the lavish spaceflight and the struggles of people facing economic hardships, stating, “It’s so much money to go to space, and there’s a lot of people who can’t even afford eggs.”
Comedian Amy Schumer joined the critique with a satirical Instagram post, joking about receiving a last-minute invitation to join the space crew and mocking the perceived superficiality of the mission.
Defending the Mission
In response to the backlash, Lauren Sánchez defended the mission during a press conference, inviting critics to visit Blue Origin and witness the dedication of its employees. She emphasized the importance of the mission for inspiring future generations and showcasing the contributions of women in space exploration. Gayle King also addressed the criticism, stating that detractors “don’t really understand what is happening here.” She highlighted the positive responses from young women and girls who found inspiration in the all-female crew’s journey.
The Broader Implications of Celebrity Space Travel
The Blue Origin mission reignited discussions about the increasing involvement of celebrities in space travel. While proponents argue that such high-profile missions help raise awareness and inspire public interest in science and space exploration, critics argue that it blurs the line between serious scientific endeavor and entertainment spectacle. The backlash to this all-female mission, despite its symbolic importance, highlights the growing tension between activism and extravagance in celebrity culture. As space becomes more commercialized, society may need to reevaluate how such missions are framed—and whether their benefits outweigh their environmental and ethical costs. The debate is far from over.
Conclusion
The all-female Blue Origin spaceflight has sparked a complex debate about the intersection of representation, privilege, and environmental responsibility. While the mission was intended to celebrate women’s achievements and inspire future generations, it also raised questions about the allocation of resources and the optics of such high-profile endeavors. As discussions continue, the flight serves as a catalyst for broader conversations about the values and priorities in space exploration and beyond.
