In an Allure profile and cover story, Colombian pop star Shakira openly shared her criticisms of the Oscar-winning film, Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig. While many celebrities have praised the film, Shakira expressed her concerns, particularly regarding its potential emasculation of men.

When asked about her thoughts on the movie, Shakira did not hold back, stating that her sons "absolutely hated it" and felt that it diminished their masculinity. Shakira emphasized the importance of raising her two boys to feel powerful while also respecting women. She argued that pop culture should empower women without undermining men's ability to protect and provide.

The singer clarified her comment, emphasizing her belief in providing women with all the tools and trust to achieve their goals while maintaining their femininity. Shakira asserted that men have a specific purpose in society, just as women do, and that their complementary roles should not be lost.

In response to the interviewer's question about whether a woman should do it all, Shakira argued for sharing the load with those who deserve and have a duty to carry it. This viewpoint sparked surprise from the interviewer, Patricia Alfonso Tortolani, who described it as part of the "Shakira Paradox," where women deserve power, agency, and sexiness, yet it is not contradictory for Shakira to expect men to fulfill their responsibilities.

While Shakira expressed her dislike for Barbie, the film itself achieved tremendous success. Directed solely by a woman, Greta Gerwig, Barbie made history as the first movie to gross over $1 billion. Additionally, the film received eight Oscar nominations and won the award for Best Original Song.

Shakira's bold critique of Barbie emphasizes the complex dynamics of equal empowerment between men and women. While the film resonated with many, it also sparked a meaningful conversation about balancing gender roles and preserving both femininity and masculinity in today's society.