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Australian singer-songwriter Dean Lewis has issued a public apology in the wake of a surge of allegations from female fans who said they experienced uncomfortable interactions with the artist. The 38-year-old, known for hits such as “Waves” and “Be Alright,” addressed the matter in a lengthy Instagram statement, describing the situation as an “overdue wake-up call.”
In recent weeks, multiple women posted on social media (including TikTok) screenshots, voice-messages and accounts of what they characterized as flirtatious or suggestive communications with Lewis. Some said they felt the conduct crossed lines of comfort, despite consensual status. While Lewis emphasized that all relationships in question involved consenting adults and that he had not engaged in illegal activity, he acknowledged the emotional impact of his behaviour.
“In the past few days, social media has made public a decade-plus of private conversations with a number of women, all of adult age,” Lewis wrote. He admitted, “I was breathtakingly dumb texting and flirting in the manner I have over many years.” He went on to say, “I understand why people are angry and disappointed after learning embarrassing details of intimate, private conversations and relationships I’ve had … At the same time I realise I’ve made an incredible mess, people are genuinely hurt, and I need to make changes.”
Lewis also expressed remorse to those who may feel hurt but have not spoken publicly, “From the bottom of my heart, I want to sincerely apologise to those I’ve hurt. This is not only an apology to the women who have spoken up, but those who haven’t and felt hurt by my words or behaviour. I also need to apologise to my family and fans who I’ve gravely disappointed.”
As part of his response, Lewis announced immediate steps toward personal change. He said he will enrol in “intense therapy” to better understand his actions and establish clearer boundaries. Among the measures he intends to adopt is a “whole new set of rules” so there is never confusion about his intent when interacting with fans or responding to messages. He added that he will take a step back for a while to “look after myself… while I get my head and life in order.”
While no criminal charges have been brought, the controversy has raised questions about the management of Lewis’s career during his meteoric rise. Some industry commentary suggests that concerns about his behaviour had circulated internally for years.
