Katy Perry Holds Hands with Justin Trudeau at the World Economic Forum, Igniting Online Stir

The American pop star turned heads at the global forum with her boyfriend, but it was her appearance that had fans wondering if she was expecting or unwell.

The World Economic Forum is typically known for high-level policy talks and a roster of global power players. But on January 20, 2026, it was Katy Perry and former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau who captured attention.

Their arrival in Davos, Switzerland, stood out against the summit's usual backdrop of suited dignitaries and CEOs, sparking immediate conversation both at the venue and online.

Perry, effortlessly polished in a fitted, long-sleeved beige button-down dress that hugged her frame, was later seen seated in the front row for Trudeau's appearance. The former prime minister, sharp in a navy suit and patterned tie, walked confidently beside her as cameras flashed.

Photos of the two holding hands through the venue quickly made the rounds on social media, snapped up by entertainment sites and news outlets alike.

But it wasn't just the cameras capturing the moment. The commentary came fast and loud.

Online Buzz Over Katy Perry's Appearance

One Instagram post from Page Six referred to Trudeau as Perry's "boyfriend," drawing even more attention to the pairing and triggering a wave of online speculation.

On Facebook, commenters zeroed in on Perry's appearance, with one writing, "She looks pregnant." Another asked, "Is she pregnant??" A third added, "She appears to have a 'bump'. ??" A third shifted focus to her styling, "Omg she dress like a first lady 😁😁."

On Instagram, reactions ranged from surprise to concern and advice, with one commenter posting, "She different. 😯😯😂❤️🔥" Another observed, "She looks so sickly is she ok ?!"

A critic questioned her comfort and encouraged her to stay true to herself: "She doesn't look comfortable in those clothes at all 😔 she shouldn't have to change her style... don't change for anybody ❤️"

A different Instagrammer gushed, "Omg Katy is hitting differently 😍." Another observed, "omg [sic] she looks so professional here," while someone else commented, "first lady of canada [sic] looks so beautiful."

The unexpected appearance of a pop star and a former world leader added a celebrity twist to the traditionally reserved forum, catching many off guard.

The Ex-Husband Spoke Out

While public attention fixated on Perry and Trudeau’s appearance in Davos, an unexpected voice from the past resurfaced.

As previously reported, Russell Brand reignited public fascination with his past marriage to Perry after delivering a fiery, deeply personal monologue about her new romance with Trudeau, triggering a flood of online reactions ranging from outrage to mockery.

The comedian made the remarks while speaking at a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix, Arizona, where he unexpectedly shifted from political commentary to his own complicated emotions about his ex-wife's headline-grabbing relationship.

From Blessings to Barbs in Front of Her Mother

Standing before a live audience, Brand acknowledged Perry's parents, who were seated in the room, before launching into comments that quickly went viral.

"I love her still, and I'm glad that her mom's in the room to hear me say this, but look," he stated. "I was okay with Orlando Bloom, but Justin Trudeau? C'mon, man! Don't put me in a category with that guy! That globalist stooge."

Moments earlier, Brand had struck a reverent tone when addressing Perry's family directly. "My ex-wife's parents are here. They're Christians, and I love them," he had begun. "I love Mary Perry. God bless you. Thank you for bringing the message to me."

The contrast between tenderness and ridicule proved combustible once the clip spread across social media.

Accusations of Jealousy Flood Social Media

Online commenters wasted no time dissecting Brand's words, with many reading his comments as a sign of unresolved feelings. One viewer shared, "He's jealous. Men don't talk about their exes like that unless they're still hung up on them."

Another questioned his motive entirely, asking, "Why is he talking about his ex like that?" A third added, "It's so gross. I look at her completely different now."

Others were less sympathetic, suggesting Brand's remarks revealed more about him than Perry. "Justin Trudeau is an upgrade from Russell Brand," one commenter wrote, while another chimed in, "Glad Katy escaped from Brand."

Supporters Call It Comedy, Critics Call It Clout

Not everyone was offended. Some viewers brushed off the comments as classic Brand provocation. "Russell's speech was really good and hilarious," one supporter opined. Another dismissed the moment altogether, saying, "This guy will say anything to stay relevant."

But even defenders acknowledged the polarizing effect of the remarks, which kept Brand trending and reignited scrutiny of his past relationship.

One comment cut especially deep by mocking Brand's framing entirely. It read, "'I was ok with Orlando Bloom.' Imagine thinking you're the approval committee for Katy Perry's love life."

Revisiting a Marriage Long Over

Brand and Perry were married in October 2010 in a private ceremony in India. Their divorce was finalized in July 2012, months after Brand filed, citing irreconcilable differences. There were no public disputes at the time, and both parties agreed to a settlement.

Years later, Brand has continued to reflect publicly on the marriage. During an April 2025 episode of his podcast, "Stay Free With Russell Brand," he spoke at length about Perry's character.

"What I can tell you is, when I was married to Katy Perry, she's, like, not entirely normal, because she's an extraordinary, massive star — but she's not weird or off-key," he said. "And wasn't involved in anything nefarious, as far as I could tell."

He added, "The reasons ours marriage didn't work are the normal, human reasons marriages don't work, and I have nothing but respect for her."

Brand acknowledged that political disagreements existed during their marriage but insisted they were not unique.

"I obviously disagree with her political views," he stated. "But I probably disagree with some of my wife's political views, my beloved wife, Laura Brand's political views. So, you know, you always disagree with people, don't ya?"

Katy Moved On, but Russell Can't Seem to Let Go

Meanwhile, the unexpected pairing of the pop superstar and Trudeau drew widespread attention. The pop icon and the Canadian politician's unexpected romance continues to bloom, with some sources revealing how they’re growing closer out of the spotlight.

After months of speculation, the "I Kissed a Girl" hitmaker and the former Canadian prime minister went public with their headline-making romance.

Earlier reports shed light on how the surprising match was working, and the efforts they both made to put each other first.

What Katy Perry Really Thinks About the Ex–Prime Minister

According to a source close to Perry, the "Firework" singer is deeply touched by Trudeau's efforts to stay close during her grueling Lifetimes World Tour, which stretches through December.

"She's focused on her tour, and Justin has made a real effort to meet her where she is — literally," the source said. "She's flattered. He's shown that he's committed and really cares about spending time with her. It's clear that he values the connection, and so does Katy. She's in a great place."

And nothing speaks louder than grand gestures: Trudeau flew to Paris just in time for Perry's 41st birthday, aligning his visit with their public outing, a move Perry welcomed with open arms.

A Romance neither of Them Saw Coming

Though insiders admit the relationship caught "The One that Got Away" singer off guard, they say she's fully open to what's unfolding and is enjoying every moment of it.

Another source shared that despite their demanding schedules, the pair is carving out time together and building something that feels real. "Katy didn't expect to fall for somebody so soon, but Justin checks all the boxes. He has a great sense of humor, he's charming and treats her with respect," the source explained.

Their Paris outing was only the beginning, and once the photos hit the internet, the frenzy was instant.

Inside Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau's Head-Turning Night in Paris

On October 25, TMZ reported that Trudeau was seen enjoying a glamorous night out in Paris with Perry, just in time for her birthday. The two were photographed leaving the iconic Crazy Horse cabaret hand-in-hand.

A fan reportedly handed Perry a single rose as she exited the venue, before the pair slipped into a waiting vehicle.

The public outing marked the first time the two had been seen together in a romantic context, sparking discussions on social platforms. While some praised the pair for embracing happiness, others were quick to question the motive behind it.

On Facebook, the mood skewed skeptical. One commenter wondered, "Publicity stunt?" while another speculated, "My gut says he is using her to get back into the light 🙂 🤔." A third added a cheeky take, "The question is who thinks they’re the bigger star😉."

By contrast, Instagram proved more supportive. One fan celebrated the sighting, "Love that they are both out living their lives and enjoying themselves ❤️." Another noted the couple's body language, observing, "Look at their facial expressions, how proud they are of themselves☺️."

Others struck a more conflicted tone, "Why was this really awkward 😬." Some on the platform reflected on Perry's romantic history, with one remarking, "Maybe he is good for her , he isn't a super star but it's a start for normal for her [sic]."

However, support wasn't in short supply. A separate commenter praised the former prime minister's apparent ease, declaring, "He looks happy, good for him #Canada," while another simply concluded, "The glow does not lie."