Music video filming by Katy Perry results in hefty penalty due to shooting in protected region of Spain
Katy Perry was recently fined approximately €6,001 (around $7,000 USD) by the Balearic government for filming her music video "Lifetimes" in the Ses Salines Natural Park on the Balearic Islands without proper permits [2][3][5]. The unauthorized filming took place in July 2022, specifically on the dunes of S'Espalmador, a highly protected and ecologically sensitive area known for its rich biodiversity and status as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site [2][3].
The natural park is home to over 200 species of migratory birds, fragile dune ecosystems, and Posidonia seagrass, making it a location with stringent environmental safeguards [2][3]. Environmental regulators classified the offense as "serious" but found no significant lasting environmental damage from the shoot [3][5]. The fine was imposed on the production company, which promptly paid it [3].
The incident sparked controversy, highlighting the balance between artistic freedom and environmental protection. The production company, WeOwnTheCity, is under investigation for possible environmental damage [1]. The Balearic Islands government launched an investigation after it was discovered that the necessary permissions were not obtained [5].
The video, directed by Stillz, features scenes of cliff jumping, beach dancing, and partying at nightlife spots on the Balearic Islands [4]. It also includes postcards from filming locations, including Ibiza and Formentera [4]. The music video caused outrage among local residents [6]. Actress Abigail Breslin is among those who have called out Katy Perry for working with Dr. Luke, a disgraced music producer [7]. Kesha accused Dr. Luke of sexually assaulting her in a 2014 lawsuit, which he denied. The duo settled their claims last year [8].
Katy Perry's record label, Capitol Records, defended the production by stating that the local company had secured verbal approval and submitted a permit application during filming, but ultimately acknowledged a failure to secure formal written permission [2][5]. The incident underscores the strict regulations protecting this ecologically valuable site [1].
In summary, the fine arose from unauthorized filming in a protected Spanish natural park during the production of her music video "Lifetimes," with the main dispute centered on the lack of formal permits despite some verbal clearances, underscoring the strict regulations protecting this ecologically valuable site [1][2][3][5]. The controversy also raises questions about the balance between artistic freedom and environmental protection, as well as the impact of celebrity actions on local communities and ecosystems.
The unauthorized filming of Katy Perry's music video "Lifetimes" in the Ses Salines Natural Park, a location with stringent environmental safeguards and home to sensitive ecosystems and migratory bird species, led to a fine imposed on the production company. This incident sparked controversy, emphasizing the delicate balance between artistic freedom and environmental protection.
