Melanie Martinez's coloring book controversy ignites backlash over alleged harmful imagery

Melanie Martinez faces growing criticism over her Cry Baby Coloring Book, accused of featuring disturbing imagery.

Pop singer and influencer Melanie Martinez is under scrutiny for her Cry Baby Coloring Book, a 2016 release that critics claim contains imagery promoting child abuse. 

Known for songs like "Cry Baby" and "Dollhouse," Martinez has faced prior allegations, including sexual assault claims by former friend Timothy Heller in 2017.

The coloring book controversy resurfaced in 2025, reigniting debates over Martinez's intentions. Critics have pointed out unsettling depictions, including a child in a bathtub with soap in her mouth and a wolf holding a child under its arm. One illustration of a wolf holding an ice cream cone has been interpreted by some as suggestive of abuse. Fans argue the images reflect lyrics from Martinez's songs, such as "Tag, You're It," which describes themes like kidnapping.

Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have amplified the backlash. A video showcasing the book's images sparked divided opinions, with some labeling the artwork as harmful and inappropriate, while others defend it as artistic interpretation tied to song lyrics. A comment on TikTok noted, "It’s still not OK to show children depicted in a sexual light like the bathtub and ice cream."

@aubreyismymiddlename

Kinda crazy for you to talk about a topic, and not dive into the info yourself or listen to THE ALBUM 😗 #fypシ #melaniemartinez #melaniemartinezcrybaby #crybabycoloringbook #crybaby #fyp

♬ Soap - Melanie Martinez

@sadboygumart

#greenscreen posting drafts cause i’m sick rn#melaniemartinez #csaawareness #artist

♬ original sound - Sadboygum

@chloeforero

 

♬ original sound - chloeforero

Defenders counter that the imagery is being misinterpreted, emphasizing that the book was not marketed to children and that the depictions align with Martinez's creative themes. Critics, however, argue that the context doesn’t excuse the potential harm.

As the controversy grows, Martinez has remained silent, leaving the debate unresolved. The Cry Baby Coloring Book continues to be a focal point of online discussions, raising questions about artistic boundaries and social responsibility.