Canadian singer Tate McRae responds after facing backlash over Team USA promotion

Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Tate McRae has revealed where her loyalties lie after the Canadian pop star raised eyebrows for appearing in a 2026 Winter Olympics ad with Team U.S.A. In response to online commenters criticizing her show of support for the American team instead of cheering for the Great White North in a new NBC and Peacock commercial promoting the opening ceremony, the 22-year-old singer made it clear that no matter what the ad showed, she plans to root for her home country. McRae reassured her fans by sharing a throwback picture to her as a child holding a tiny Canadian flag on her Instagram Story Wednesday, writing: “...y’all know I’m Canada down.” On Tuesday, McRae had posted the controversial advertisement to Instagram, writing: “Go sports! Watch the #WinterOlympics Opening Ceremony Friday and #SBLX Sunday on NBC and Peacock.” In the clip, which prominently features the American flag throughout, McRae skis up to a directional sign with an owl perched on top. “Oh hi, I’m a bit lost,” she says, taking off her helmet to introduce herself. Canadian singer Tate McRae responded to backlash over appearing with Team U.S.A. in a commercial ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics by sharing a picture of her as a child holding a Canadian flag ( Getty Images/Instagram ) “Tate McRae. Oh, I’m nobody. Nobody’s girl, that is,” she adds with a wink, referencing her 2025 song “Nobody’s Girl.” “I’m trying to get to Milan for an amazing opening ceremony and meet Team USA. Then, it’s the weekend with America’s best skating for gold, and Lindsey Vonn’s epic comeback,” she notes. “Then back to the States for the big game: Super Bowl 60.” The partnership drew mixed reactions, with some people criticizing the singer for promoting another nation’s team. “Girl you’re Canadian,” one wrote, while a second joked: “Yeah u really are lost.” “The very American Tate Mcrae,” a third quipped. “Love you but I think you forgot what team you’re on,” another said. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Some were more offended by her endorsement of Team USA, especially amid the current tense political climate between America and Canada following Donald Trump’s calls for the country to join the U.S. as the “51st state.” “No amount of money could make me endorse the country that threatens mine,” one insisted. “Interesting choice to not support Canada. Disappointed,” a second added. “Why are you doing this for America?” another questioned. The Independent has contacted McRae’s representative for comment. The 2026 Winter Olympics are taking place in Milan and Cortina, Italy, with early events already underway ahead of Saturday’s opening ceremony. This year’s show is themed around “Harmony” to represent the two Italian host cities. It will welcome Mariah Carey as the headliner, in addition to featured performances from Andrea Bocelli, Laura Pausini, Ghali, Cecilia Bartoli, Sabrina Impacciatore and Lang Lang. In addition to the show-stopping performances, expect to see plenty of celebrities at the games, including Snoop Dogg, who is Team USA’s first honorary coach and will be part of NBC’s coverage team. The 2026 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony will broadcast live Friday on NBC and Peacock at 2pm E.T.