Platinum card required to see Olivia Rodrigo live? Exclusive show fuels backlash

Olivia Rodrigo to host exclusive concert only for American Express Platinum cardholders in NYC this week

Olivia Rodrigo is generating controversy with a newly announced concert that is strictly limited to members of American Express’s Platinum card tier. The pop star has partnered with AMEX to host a special show in New York City this Thursday, yet only cardholders with eligible Platinum accounts will be able to purchase tickets.

Tickets for the event must be purchased using an American Express Platinum card, and ahead of that fans were instructed to visit mirrored installations in Soho, the East Village and Williamsburg where scanning a QR code and presenting a selfie was required to unlock ticket access. While some fans welcome the intimate nature of the performance, many are deeply frustrated by what they describe as an elitist barrier to access. Fans have raised questions about how many of Rodrigo’s younger supporters would realistically qualify for the card.

The partnership with AMEX is not the singer’s first such tie-in: Rodrigo has worked with the company previously on her ‘GUTS’ world tour and other special events. In this case however, the exclusivity has drawn sharper criticism, with observers pointing out that the average fan might not hold the card or meet its credit and fee requirements. One comment noted the fee for Platinum status alone can be substantial, arguing the event is effectively gated by financial means.

On the other hand, the show is slated to support Rodrigo’s charitable initiative, Fund 4 Good, which has previously benefited from ticket sales and corporate sponsorships. Supporters argue that by tying in with a high-tier reward card the artist is securing greater financial backing, possibly enabling lower ticket prices or alternative outreach. Critics maintain that this arrangement still excludes many loyal fans who cannot access the required card tier.

As the date of the show approaches, the tension between branding, exclusivity and fan inclusivity is becoming a focal point for discussion. Whether Rodrigo’s partnership with AMEX will be seen as a savvy business move or a disappointing step away from accessible performance remains to be seen. Her core audience is watching closely and judging.