Katy Perry’s New Music Video Probed by Balearic Islands’ Environmental Ministry

Katy Perry’s latest music video featuring her frolicking on the beach is under investigation for being filmed in an area that mandates a specific permit. The Balearic Islands’ Ministry of Agriculture issued a press release on Tuesday, saying they’ve commenced an inquiry into the “Lifetimes” music video. The production team purportedly failed to obtain the necessary permit to film at Ses Salines Natural Park, situated between the islands of Ibiza and Formentera, renowned for its sand dunes.

The ministry clarified that this is not an environmental crime.

According to The Guardian and Billboard, the off-limits area is marked by ropes.

USA TODAY has reached out to representatives for Perry and the production company WeOwnTheCity for comment.

The music video, released on August 8, is for “Lifetimes,” the second single from Perry’s upcoming album “143,” which will be out on September 20. This follows the widely criticized music video for “Woman’s World.” In “Lifetimes,” described by Perry as “a song about eternal love” inspired by her daughter Daisy Dove Bloom, the popstar is seen riding a motorcycle, dancing on a beach in a bikini, and partying at a nightclub on one of the Spanish islands.

The video was directed by Stillz, also known as Matias Vasquez, who has collaborated with artists like Bad Bunny, Lil Nas X, Coldplay, Rosalía, and Omar Apollo.

Perry recently concluded her stint as a judge on “American Idol” after seven seasons and is gearing up for her first album release since 2020’s “Smile.” The upcoming album “143” includes “Woman’s World,” which faced backlash last month. Following the criticism, Perry defended the “Woman’s World” video in an Instagram Reel, showcasing behind-the-scenes footage from the set. She described the video as a parody and emphasized that they were “having fun being a bit sarcastic.” The video aimed to ironically portray her and the dancers as claiming they’re “not about the male gaze” when they “really are,” and they’re “really overplaying it.”

Perry also faced criticism for collaborating on “Woman’s World” with Dr. Luke, the producer and songwriter whom Kesha accused of sexual assault. Dr. Luke denied the allegations and accused Kesha of defamation. On Instagram, a user commented that working with Dr. Luke on the song is “truly disrespectful to Kesha and every woman in the world.”

Contributing: Brendan Morrow

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Katy Perry’s new music video investigated by Balearic Islands’ environmental ministry.