Justin Bieber faces backlash over reported private show tied to Palantir executives
Photo: Reuters
Justin Bieber is facing criticism online following reports that he performed at a private event attended by executives connected to Palantir Technologies, a data analytics company linked to US immigration enforcement and military software programmes.
According to online reports, the alleged event took place at the Rosewood Miramar Beach hotel in California. Claims surrounding the performance could not be independently verified.
The controversy emerged after a hotel employee reportedly shared an internal schedule on X, formerly Twitter, showing a listing for a “Justin Bieber Special Performance - Manor Bar & Veranda” at 8:15pm.
Justin Bieber performed a private concert at the Rosewood Hotel for executives of Palantir Technologies
Organization responsible for Donald Trump’s deportation database systems and for the software used in drones during the war with Iran. The info was leaked by a hotel employee. pic.twitter.com/5RR4IpRlCcThe leaked schedule also allegedly listed guests including Trevor Noah, Julia Roberts and Oprah Winfrey.
A caption accompanying the image compared the reported private performance with Bieber’s recent festival appearances, writing: “[You]: pay $2k for Bieberchella; [Me]: show up to work on Wednesday.”
The claims quickly prompted debate online, with critics questioning Bieber’s reported association with Palantir Technologies, a company co-founded by billionaire Peter Thiel.
Palantir has faced scrutiny over its work with US government agencies, particularly its role in immigration enforcement databases developed during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Civil liberties groups, including the ACLU, have criticised aspects of the company’s predictive data systems, arguing they contribute to mass surveillance and aggressive immigration enforcement practices.
The company is also known for military software used in defence and drone operations. Palantir maintains that its technology supports national security and modern defence infrastructure.
Some social media users disputed claims that the gathering was a Palantir event, pointing to a separate listing for start-up travel company WNDR26 on the same schedule.
One user wrote, “This is incorrect. Any business invites heads of businesses. A guest performer would not control that. It was not a Palantir event.”
Bieber has not publicly commented on the reports or the leaked schedule.