"No Music Critic Is Bigger Than Me"- Anthony Fantano Calls Himself the Most Influential Music Critic After Halsey Feud

Published 06/23/2026, 5:07 AM EDT

Credits: Halsey (left)/@iamhalsey/via Instagram/ Styled and creative directed by: Ivy Tellin and Anthony Fantano (right)/@afantano/ via Instagram/ Photographed by: Emilio Herce

The ongoing feud between Halsey and music reviewer Anthony Fantano has once again put the spotlight on the complicated relationship between artists and critics. What began as criticism of a years-old album review has now evolved into a highly public online dispute that has fans of both sides weighing in.

As the exchange continues to generate headlines, Fantano is making it clear that he has no intention of backing down from his views. His latest comments have sparked fresh debate about his influence in the music industry and the role critics play in shaping public opinion.

Anthony Fantano doubles down on his legacy amid controversy

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Speaking to Variety about the backlash surrounding his review of Halsey’s 2024 album 'The Great Impersonator,' Anthony Fantano defended both his critique and his place in music journalism. The YouTube creator argued that his review focused solely on the music and not on Halsey’s personal health struggles that inspired the record. Anthony Fantano also made a bold claim about his standing in the industry.

“There’s no music critic bigger than me who’s had more impact than me for as long as I have, consistently. And if I die tomorrow, nobody’s going to outdo that run,” said Anthony Fantano to Variety.

The reviewer, while speaking to Variety, maintained that his influence and longevity are unmatched among critics of his generation. He argued that no other music critic has matched his level of influence, visibility, and staying power over the past decade. Fantano also dismissed suggestions that his legacy could be surpassed anytime soon, insisting that his impact on music criticism speaks for itself.

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The disagreement between Anthony Fantano and Halsey, however, now seems to have a track list of its own.

How the online clash between Halsey and Anthony Fantano escalated?

The latest round of tension began after social media users resurfaced discussion about Anthony Fantano’s harsh review of 'The Great Impersonator.' Halsey entered the conversation by quote-tweeting the critic and declaring that even her least memorable song would be remembered longer than anything he accomplished.

She also accused Fantano of being “whiny” and “edgy,” while referencing her chemotherapy treatment for blood cancer. The comments were a response to Fantano’s original review, in which he criticized the album and accused the singer of displaying “main character syndrome.”

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Anthony Fantano attempted to defuse the situation by saying he was flattered to be on Halsey’s radar and referred to her as a “queen.” The gesture failed to land, with Halsey responding by calling him a “raised-by-4chan edgelord bully.” Before ending her series of posts, Halsey briefly reflected on her health challenges and wished Fantano good luck. Meanwhile, Fantano continues to attract attention through his YouTube channel 'The Needle Drop,' where he has built a reputation as one of the internet’s most recognizable music reviewers.

While neither side appears ready to move on, the exchange has reignited conversations about criticism, celebrity, and influence in the digital age. Whether fans agree with Fantano’s assessment or Halsey’s response, the feud has ensured both remain at the center of the discussion.

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What do you think about Anthony Fantano’s claim that no music critic is bigger than him? Let us know in the comments! 

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Karishma Dasgupta

509 articles

Karishma is an entertainment journalist at Netflix Junkie. She enjoys digging deep into stories and bringing clarity to the often fast-moving world of entertainment. She holds a double Master’s degree in Fashion Business Management and Digital Marketing.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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