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In a revealing interview on the "Dumb Blonde" podcast, singer-songwriter Elle King didn't mince words when discussing her strained relationship with her father, comedian Rob Schneider. The "Ex's and Oh's" hitmaker painted a picture of a challenging childhood marked by neglect and body-shaming, shedding light on why she chooses to distance herself from the former "Saturday Night Live" star.
King, born Tanner Elle Schneider in 1989, adopted her mother's maiden name professionally to forge her own path in the music industry. "I never wanted his help," she stated, citing Schneider's "not very good reputation" as a reason to avoid association.
The Grammy-nominated artist recounted summers spent on movie sets, feeling "lost in the shuffle" and facing harsh criticism if she disrupted filming. More painfully, King alleged that Schneider repeatedly forgot her birthdays, including her 18th, which she spent in summer school.
Body image emerged as a significant source of tension. "I was a really, really heavy child, and my dad sent me to fat camp," King revealed. She described the experience as "toxic and silly," recalling getting in trouble for not losing weight due to an ankle injury.
King also took issue with Schneider's controversial conservative views, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights. "You're talking out your a--, and you're talking s--t about drag and gay rights — get f--ked," she said, referencing Schneider's recent social media posts criticizing drag performers at the Olympics opening ceremony.
The rift appears unlikely to heal anytime soon. "I go four or five years without talking to my dad," King admitted. She recounted a recent phone call where Schneider demanded she stop discussing him in the press, to which she responded, "Get f--ked."
Industry insiders note the potential impact of such public family drama on both careers. Music critic Sarah Johnson commented, "Elle has built her brand on authenticity and raw emotion. This candor, while potentially risky, aligns with her artistic persona."
Meanwhile, Schneider's representatives declined to comment on King's statements. The comedian, known for roles in films like "Deuce Bigalow" and "The Hot Chick," has faced backlash for his outspoken conservative views in recent years.
As King continues to make waves in the country and rock scenes, she remains firm in her stance. "You can want someone to change so much ... All you can control is how you react and what you do with your feelings," she concluded, seemingly closing the door on reconciliation for now.
The "Dumb Blonde" podcast episode featuring King's full interview is set to release on August 12, 2024, promising more insights into this complex family dynamic that has captured public attention.
