Is Sabrina Carpenter's new song about ex Barry Keoghan? 'Manchild' lyrics put fan theories to rest

Sabrina Carpenter’s latest single “Manchild” has stirred speculation among fans who believe it targets her former partner Barry Keoghan. However, a particular lyric referencing a “mom” has led many to reconsider the assumption.

The track opens with Sabrina laughing and exclaiming, “Oh, boy,” setting a playful yet cutting tone. The chorus includes the lines: “Manchild, why you always come a-runnin’ to me? / F–k my life, won’t you let an insane woman be? / Never heard of self-care / Half your brain just ain’t there / Manchild, why you always come a-runnin’, takin’ all my lovin’ from me?”

These sharp lyrics initially fuelled rumours that the subject could be Keoghan. However, in the second verse, the lyric “I choose to blame your mom” has shifted fan interpretation. Barry Keoghan’s mother passed away from heroin addiction when he was 12, a tragedy he has openly discussed. Given the sensitivity of that loss, many believe it is unlikely Sabrina would allude to it in this context.

Sabrina confirmed she wrote “Manchild" “on a random Tuesday with Amy and Jack, not too long after finishing short n’ sweet.” This timeline places the song's creation during her relationship with Barry, further distancing it from being a post-breakup track.

Despite the speculation, “Manchild” is already gaining traction as a possible lead single from her upcoming seventh album, although no official album announcement has been made yet.