Who Is Karen Elson? New Details About The Singer Who's Speaking Out About Her 'Traumatic' Experience With Ryan Adams
She hasn't yet revealed the specifics.
lev radin / shutterstock.com Since news broke of abuse allegations against Ryan Adams, more and more women have come forward to tell their own stories. Several women, including his ex-wife Mandy Moore and musician Phoebe Bridgers, claim Adams said he would assist them in furthering their careers, and then pursued them sexually.
When they rejected his advances, he reportedly attempted to sabotage their careers and harassed them via text message and social media. There are additional accusations that Adams exchanged sexually explicit messages with an underage girl, allegations the FBI is now investigating.
Though Adams has denied any wrongdoing and issued an “apology” on Twitter, more women continue to back up the allegations.
And the latest are coming from two musicians: Liz Phair and Karen Elson. Though you’ve heard of Liz Phair from her decades of music, who is Karen Elson? Her name may sound familiar, as she is the ex-wife of Jack White, of the White Stripes, and one of the members of the band the Citizens Band, a political cabaret troupe.
But she’s much more than White’s ex. She’s released two solo albums and appeared on numerous music tracks for musicians like Robert Plant and Cat Power. Elson is also a model who has been on runways for Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Versace, Dior, and Alexander McQueen, and has appeared on magazine covers for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and Marie Claire.
In a now-deleted post on Instagram, Elson wrote, “I also had a traumatizing experience with Ryan Adams. While I’m not quite brave enough yet to speak about my specifics, I'm encouraged that many women have bonded and helped each other heal. This is the power of sisterhood and I’m very grateful for these women. I hope all those speaking out are given the grace and dignity they deserve. The trauma that lingers is often a very powerful silencer of women, as is the business that enables these men to thrive without ever facing consequences.”
In response to the post, Mandy Moore responded, “I [heart emoji] you so much and commend your bravery.”
Coming forward with her own story is incredibly brave, considering what is at stake: her career. After years of women allegedly being at the behest and manipulation of Adams, she’s speaking her truth, and encouraging other women to do the same.
Samantha Maffucci is an associate editor for YourTango who focuses on writing trending news and entertainment pieces. In her free time, you can find her obsessing about cats, wine, and all things Vanderpump Rules.