Pop star Rita Ora has spoken candidly about the mistakes she's made in her career, admitting she regrets not being "more considerate".
In a recent interview on the Reign with Josh Smith podcast, the 34-year-old singer acknowledged the public backlash she faced after holding a lavish 30th birthday party during lockdown, despite strict government rules. The event, which took place at a West London restaurant just days after her return from a trip to North Africa, resulted in a £10,000 fine and widespread criticism.
“I’ve made a lot of mistakes, and I’ve definitely learned from them,” Ora said, adding that her biggest regret is “not being more considerate” both to herself and others. “I was just living every day like it was my last, with no care about what was going to happen the next day.”
Reflecting on the pressure of fame and her role as a public figure, Ora admitted she didn't initially understand the level of responsibility that came with being a role model. “I think a lot of people were looking up to me… and I didn’t mentally digest that,” she said. “I was just living, going and going, and not stopping.”
Ora’s lockdown breach, which made headlines at the height of the pandemic, was widely condemned, especially given her high-profile status. She now says the experience made her more aware of the impact of her actions on fans and the public.
“I feel proud of the job and the responsibility I have now. I want to keep it honest and transparent,” she shared. “I’ve never changed my personality, and yes, I do speak before I think sometimes, but I think that’s part of being an artist.”
The Let You Love Me hitmaker also touched on the personal cost of her career, revealing that her birthdays are now quieter affairs due to her demanding schedule. “I do sacrifice a lot – I don’t see my family as much. I miss Christmases. It’s a lot of sacrifices to do this.”
Ora’s comments come five years after the scandal that threatened to overshadow her career. With this public acknowledgement, she hopes to demonstrate personal growth — and perhaps, begin a new chapter marked by greater self-awareness and accountability.