Sabrina Carpenter Responds to Album Cover Backlash with a New Version and a Wink

Image via Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock

Sabrina Carpenter is once again at the center of conversation, this time not for her chart-topping singles, but for the cover art of her upcoming album Man’s Best Friend, out August 29.

Earlier this month, Carpenter revealed the original album artwork: a provocative image of her crawling on all fours toward a suited man, his hand gripping her hair. The internet lit up almost instantly. Discussions around feminism, power dynamics, and artistic intent exploded across social media, with fans and critics alike debating whether the image was empowering or objectifying.

On June 25, Carpenter posted an alternate album cover to Instagram, this one a black-and-white photo of her in a beaded dress dancing with a man whose face is turned away. Several other tuxedo-clad figures stand in the background. She captioned the post with a cheeky “approved by God,” subtly addressing the backlash without directly responding.

The updated artwork, which is now one of two versions available for pre-order, was met with applause by fans who appreciated Carpenter’s use of humor and her ability to steer the narrative. Some commenters even referenced her viral “Jesus was a Carpenter” slogan, pointing to her history of clapping back with style.

But beneath the irony is a deeper reflection. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Carpenter spoke candidly about the intense scrutiny female artists face in the public eye.

As for the critique of her lyrics and live performances? Carpenter didn’t hold back.

With Man’s Best Friend now up for pre-order, Carpenter has turned controversy into momentum, a move that’s become something of her trademark. Whether through subtle satire or direct commentary, she continues to challenge public perception while staying firmly in control of her image.