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Katy Perry's $4M Wiz Concert Sparks Online Backlash
10 Nov
Summary
- Wiz employees were flown to Thailand for a five-day retreat.
- Katy Perry reportedly performed for $3M-$4M, sparking criticism.
- This follows a protest during Perry's private concert in Australia.
Wiz, a cybersecurity company acquired by Google in March 2026, recently organized a lavish five-day retreat for its employees in Thailand. The getaway, held at a luxury resort in Khao Lak, reportedly cost tens of millions of shekels and included parties and extensive employee activities. A highlight of the retreat was a surprise private performance by pop star Katy Perry, which is said to have cost between $3 million and $4 million, including production expenses.
The private concert, featuring hits like "I Kissed a Girl," has ignited online criticism. Users questioned Perry's decision to perform for the company and criticized celebrities who publicly advocate for social causes while accepting substantial private bookings. This backlash mirrors a recent event in February 2024, when Perry performed at an Australian billionaire's estate and faced pro-Palestinian demonstrators protesting the attendees and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Wiz has a history of extravagant employee events. Previous celebrations include a 10 million shekel Purim party with numerous Israeli artists and a "Survivor"-themed trip to Mauritius. Their annual sales event in Las Vegas also featured a performance by rapper Pitbull.
