Spanish authorities have launched an investigation into the production company behind Katy Perry's latest music video, which was filmed in the protected dunes of the Balearic Islands without proper authorization.
 |
| Perry has released two singles from '143' ahead of its Sept. 20 release. Courtesy of Getty Images |
The video, directed by Stillz for Perry's new single "Lifetimes" from her sixth studio album 143, features scenes of the singer partying and clubbing on the Mediterranean islands.
However, Spanish officials issued a statement on Tuesday indicating that no permission was sought to film on the ecologically sensitive land on the isle of S’Espalmador in Formentera. The investigation is focused on potential damage to the dunes, though Perry and her production team are not currently facing prosecution for any "crime against the environment."
Authorities noted that videos and photography on such land "can be authorized" if a request is made in advance.
The ministry responsible for conservation of the area stated that "in no case had the production company requested authorization from the ministry to carry out the filming," leading to the initiation of a preliminary investigation.
A spokesperson for Perry's label told The Morfeli Reporter on Wednesday that "the local video production company assured us that all necessary permits for the video were secured. We have since learned that one permit was in process, although we were given verbal authority to go ahead.
Our local crew on July 22 applied for a permit for this specific location with the Directorate-General for Coasts and Coastline. Our crew received verbal approval on July 26 to proceed with the filming on July 27. We adhered to all regulations associated with filming in this area and have the utmost respect for this location and the officials tasked with protecting it."
Katy Perry has released two singles from her upcoming album 143, set for release on Sept. 20: "Woman’s World" and "Lifetimes." Both singles have received a lukewarm response from critics and fans alike, a departure from the success of her previous album Smile, which peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 in 2020.
