BLACKPINK's Lisa faces nepotism claims over 2025 Oscars performance amid ties to Frédéric Arnault
BLACKPINK's Lisa made history with her performance at the 2025 Oscars, but the moment has been clouded by controversy. Critics have accused the K-pop star of securing her gig through her rumored relationship with Frédéric Arnault, the CEO of LVMH Watches, one of the event's sponsors.
Lisa, whose real name is Lalisa Manobal, performed Live and Let Die in a James Bond tribute alongside Doja Cat, Margaret Qualley, and Raye. While many praised her performance, some claimed her connection to Arnault played a role in securing her first Academy Awards appearance.
The Thai singer has never publicly confirmed her romance with the French businessman, but they have been linked since 2022, often fueling speculation with their frequent appearances together.
Frédéric Arnault, the son of French billionaire Bernard Arnault, has long been in the public eye. He previously served as CEO of TAG Heuer before stepping into his role as CEO of LVMH Watches & Jewelry in 2024.
Despite his business success, Arnault has a deep love for music, telling The New York Times in 2021, 'Music is like meditation. It allows me to focus on something else.' His passion for the arts has only fueled discussions about his support for Lisa's career.
Oscar is sponsored by LVMH founded by Arnault family.
Lisa is announced to perform with doja and raye. pic.twitter.com/RaRhAaPrxx — Flop Kpop (@TheFlopKpop) February 25, 2025
not surprise even acting in white lotus her ugly bf give the job to her & all her job related to him. u think oscar want lisa to perform with her lipsync talent?? all thx to bf connection 😭😭 https://t.co/iOEpfgcQtZ pic.twitter.com/4i1OscT9dC — 🖤 (@lolipopp000000) February 25, 2025
Lisa's fans have come out in full force to reject the nepotism claims, highlighting her global success and credibility as a performer.
She didn't train for YEARS to just be devalued and belittled. She's where she is right now because she worked hard for it. And I think you either forgot or are deliberately ignoring the fact that BLACKPINK has a massive fan base worldwide. They're in demand! — 💫 (@permanentroseee) March 3, 2025
publicity is still publicity, that's what haters fail to realize. they hate her but they keep making her famous https://t.co/VAZAQLfgbj — august (@hvoicd) March 4, 2025
the way she wasn't even nominated for an oscar but was the most talked about oh lisa you'll always be relevant https://t.co/oPezniANDB pic.twitter.com/yGbIPI7yMP — angel 𓆩🩵𓆪 (@huhycnjin_) March 3, 2025
Another supporter defended Lisa's industry status, stating, 'Lisa is extremely famous; she doesn't need her boyfriend to get her into the Oscars.' Others pointed out the double standards, with one fan adding, 'So many people attended the Oscars, including models and influencers who have nothing to do with acting or movies, but K-pop stans are coming for Lisa. At least she is performing and paying tribute, not just a trophy guest.'
Lisa is extremely famous she doesn't need her boyfriend to get her into the Oscar's — Mimi 🪷 (@PURPLESAlNT) March 3, 2025
So many people attended Oscar including Models and Influencers who got nothing to do with acting or movies but kpop stans are behind Lisa. Why she is there? Her boyfriend paid blah blah. She is performing, paying tribute. Atleast she is there for a reason not some trophy guest. — Mima🇧🇩🍉 (@ibinnieu) March 3, 2025
Lisa, who recently released her debut solo album Alter Ego and made her acting debut in The White Lotus Season 3, has always kept her personal life private. However, her rumored relationship with Arnault has only intensified the scrutiny. The two first sparked speculation in November 2022 when he attended a BLACKPINK concert in Los Angeles. He later posted a photo with the group, captioning it, 'What an amazing evening for the BLACKPINK concert in LA. Congratulations and see you soon in Paris!!'
Since then, they have been spotted together at several high-profile events, including the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Kith Launch Celebration in Miami in May 2024. A fan-captured video also appeared to show Arnault attending The White Lotus Season 3 premiere in Bangkok on February 14, 2025, though he did not walk the red carpet with Lisa.
Adding to the speculation, Lisa's 2024 song Moonlit Floor features the lyrics, 'Green-eyed French boy got me trippin'' and 'But when I heard you say, 'Bonjour, bébé.'' When asked about the possible reference to Arnault in an interview with Billboard, Lisa simply responded, 'Well, I didn't write that [song].'
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