Fans Suspect Sabrina Carpenter’s New ‘Manchild’ Single Takes Aim at Ex Barry Keoghan

Sabrina Carpenter’s latest music release has ignited speculation among her audience, with many believing that Barry Keoghan is the rumored target of Sabrina Carpenter’s Manchild single. Anticipation built on social media and in fan communities after teaser footage and billboards fueled suggestions that this new track is a direct reference to her recent breakup.

Hints Point Toward ‘Manchild’ and Its Possible Target

This week, Sabrina Carpenter, who has captured attention for her chart successes including “Espresso” and “Please Please Please,” revealed a teaser video on social media. The clip, characterized by grainy visuals of her struggling to hitchhike, sparked curiosity. Billboards displaying phrases like “Hey men!” and another message —

“I swear they choose me, I’m not choosing them”

— appeared along Interstate 69, prompting further discussion.

Soon after, Carpenter confirmed that these teasers corresponded to a new single, “Manchild,” which she announced will be released tomorrow. She described the song with a caption that read, This one’s about you!!, also unveiling its album artwork and declaring that a 7-inch vinyl is available for order. Another promotional phrase shared online stated:

“Inside of your head when you’ve just won an argument with a man”

, amplifying the song’s suggestive angle.

Fan Theories and Reactions on Social Channels

As the release draws nearer, fans have become increasingly convinced that “Manchild” is a pointed track about her ex, Barry Keoghan. Interpretations on X and other platforms highlighted this theory, with one fan declaring,

“Sabrina’s not holding back and if Manchild”

is half as sharp as that caption, we’re in for a bold, catchy callout,” wrote one person on X, while another added: Barry u are over omg.

Another fan speculated,

“I just know she’s gonna cook Barry so hard,”

while a different supporter voiced,

“Sabrina dropping a song called ‘Manchild’?? oh she did it for the girlies who’ve had ENOUGH”

. These opinions reflect a tense and uneasy environment among fans, who are eager to see if the lyrics will address the singer’s recent romantic fallout.

Relationship Timeline Between Carpenter and Keoghan

Carpenter and Barry Keoghan first appeared as a rumored couple in September 2023, later confirming public speculation with joint appearances at a Grammy after-party and the MET Gala. Highlights from their time together included Carpenter referencing his notable Saltburn scene at Coachella 2024 and Keoghan’s cameo in her “Please Please Please” music video.

In December 2024, reports emerged that the couple had separated. Amid rumors of infidelity, Keoghan used social media to publicly address what he described as severe mistreatment from fans, stating,

“I can only sit and take so much. My name has been dragged across the internet in ways I usually don’t respond to,”

and

“I have to respond now because it’s getting to a place where there are too many lines being crossed. I deactivated my account because I can no longer let this stuff distract me from my family and my work.”

He went on to elaborate, sharing he had endured,

“absolute lies, hatred, disgusting commentary about my appearance, character, how I am as a parent and every other inhumane thing you can imagine”

.

Upcoming Endeavors for Carpenter and Keoghan

Professionally, Keoghan will soon portray Ringo Starr in an upcoming four-part film series focused on The Beatles, joining Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. This project marks another significant step for the actor as he navigates both critical attention and persistent public scrutiny.

Sabrina Carpenter is currently on a brief break from her ‘Short N’ Sweet’ world tour, following a successful North American leg. She is slated to resume with European dates, including a headline slot at BST Hyde Park alongside Clairo, Beabadoobee, and Olivia Dean. Beyond music, Carpenter has been linked to a possible role in Mamma Mia 3 and recently confirmed participation in a special Fortnite dance event.

Impact of the Song’s Release on Fan and Celebrity Dynamics

The release of “Manchild” comes during a period of intense online speculation and discussion, underscoring heightened public interest in both Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan. As fans await the song’s lyrics, many expect the single may stir further conversation around their breakup, potentially amplifying both support for Carpenter and scrutiny toward Keoghan. The coming days will likely reveal whether “Manchild” directly addresses these rumors or simply fuels ongoing debate among pop music followers.