Canadian vocalist Cassandra DiFruscio has responded to a wave of online criticism from some American viewers who took issue with her nationality after she performed 'The Star-Spangled Banner' at a major National Football League game.
The Performance That Sparked Debate
The incident occurred on January 8, 2026, when DiFruscio took to the field at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. She delivered a rendition of the U.S. national anthem ahead of the matchup between the San Francisco 49ers and the Seattle Seahawks. While many praised her performance, a segment of social media users expressed frustration upon discovering the singer was Canadian.
DiFruscio, who shared a clip from the event on her Instagram account @cassandra_music, found herself at the centre of an unexpected cross-border cultural moment. The backlash primarily centred on the question of whether a non-American should perform the patriotic staple at a premier U.S. sporting event.
DiFruscio's Resilient Response
Addressing the controversy, the singer displayed a determined and positive attitude. Her key message was one of resilience and commitment to her craft. "Ready to keep going," DiFruscio stated, directly responding to the critics. This succinct reply underscored her focus on moving forward with her career despite the online noise.
The episode highlights the sometimes-intense scrutiny surrounding national anthem performances, which are deeply symbolic for many fans. DiFruscio's experience is not entirely unique, as other international artists have faced similar reactions when performing the anthem at U.S. events, though such invitations are considered a significant honour in the entertainment industry.
A Broader Context of Cross-Border Talent
The situation also reflects the long-standing and frequent exchange of artistic talent between Canada and the United States. Numerous Canadian musicians have achieved great success and performed at high-profile American events, often with widespread acclaim. DiFruscio's invitation to sing at an NFL game is a testament to her professional reputation and vocal abilities.
By stating she is "ready to keep going," DiFruscio signals that the criticism will not deter her from accepting future high-stakes performance opportunities. Her response has been met with support from many fans on both sides of the border, who have commended her professionalism and the quality of her performance at the 49ers game.
As of now, the singer has not indicated any change to her schedule or plans, suggesting she will continue to pursue her career on international stages. The incident serves as a reminder of the interconnected nature of North American sports and entertainment, where talent routinely crosses the 49th parallel.
