The drama began when Gaga’s hit song ‘Born This Way’ was compared to Madonna’s ‘Express Yourself’

Madonna has caused commotion on social media following a cryptic post about being “copied,” just days after Lady Gaga‘s headlining performance at Coachella. Could the Queen of Pop be reigniting her longstanding rivalry with Gaga? Fans seem to think so.

The drama began back in 2012 when Gaga’s hit song Born This Way was accused of bearing a striking resemblance to Madonna’s iconic 1989 single Express Yourself. Madonna herself infamously called Gaga’s track “reductive,” sending fans and critics into a frenzy at the time.

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Lady Gaga and Madonna attend the Marc Jacobs 2010 Spring Fashion Show

Now, years later, it seems Madonna may be revisiting this contentious chapter. On Wednesday, Madonna posted an image on Instagram with the words: “Did you see so-and-so copied you? God forbid a woman takes inspiration.” The singer followed up with the caption: “I see you, I love you. You’re doing great sweeties!” accompanied by a kiss emoji.

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Lady Gaga performs at the Coachella Stage during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

This post has fans speculating that it was a jab at Lady Gaga, especially in light of her recent Coachella performance. Madonna’s comments have sparked reactions from both sides of the debate. While some fans believe Madonna’s post is a supportive nod to female artists borrowing from one another, others believe it’s a direct reference to Gaga.

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Madonna is seen leaving Luar Fashion show during New York Fashion Week

Gaga’s loyal supporters, in particular, were quick to call out Madonna for her past criticism, questioning where this supportive attitude was during the height of their feud. “Where was this energy during the Born This Way era?” one fan wrote, while someone else commented, “It took her decades to see things differently… she should’ve supported Gaga when she was starting out, not belittled her.”

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Lady Gaga performs at the Coachella Stage during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

“Is this a Lady Gaga shade post??” another online user added. Meanwhile, Madonna’s defenders, took to Instagram to show their support, “Take that, copycat @ladygaga!” and “Gaga always copying you. So fed up!”

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Lady Gaga performs at the Coachella Stage during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

While Madonna’s post seemed to ignite a firestorm of debate, she limited the comments on her Instagram, further fueling speculation. Lady Gaga’s Coachella appearance seemed to honor past musical and fashion icons, including Björk and Grace Jones.

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Madonna performs onstage during “The Celebration Tour”

Madonna had previously expressed more supportive feelings toward Gaga during a January 2024 performance in Toronto. “I wouldn’t like being mistaken for Lady Gaga,” she said, before quickly adding, “Nothing against Lady Gaga. I love her. I love anyone shorter than me.”

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