Sabrina Carpenter’s upcoming single “Manchild” has generated widespread debate online, with many fans questioning if the Sabrina Carpenter song Manchild is about Barry Keoghan following her recent teaser. The speculation began after Carpenter shared a cryptic video and poster, fueling discussions about the track’s inspiration and her past relationship with the Saltburn actor.
Social Media Teaser Ignites Fan Theory About Barry Keoghan
On social media, Sabrina Carpenter revealed a brief video teaser for her new single, “Manchild.” The teaser features Carpenter in a white shirt and cropped denim jeans, standing by the roadside and attempting to hitchhike from different vehicles. Despite her efforts, each vehicle passes by, and the clip ends with Carpenter uttering, “Oh boy.”
Soon after, Carpenter changed her digital profile image to a poster of the single and added the caption, “This one’s about you!!” Fans quickly flocked to the comments, debating who the subject might be. The vinyl version of “Manchild” also revealed a line from the song, offering further hints to listeners—
Inside of your head when you’ve just won an argument with a man.
—Sabrina Carpenter, excerpt from Manchild vinyl edition
Fans Respond With Their Own Theories and Comments
The comments section of Carpenter’s Instagram post became a hub for speculation, with several users naming Barry Keoghan as the possible inspiration. One person encouraged the singer with, “GET HIM SAB,” while another credited Keoghan for the anticipated hit—
We owe Barry a big thank you for the song of the summer.
—Instagram user
Others shared similar anticipation—
DRAG HIM BABE WE CAN’T WAIT.
—Instagram user
Some fans connected the new release to the former couple’s history, pointing out that Keoghan had previously featured in the music video for Carpenter’s “Please, Please, Please.”
Timeline of Carpenter and Keoghan’s Relationship and Breakup
Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan’s romance began in 2023 but ended in December 2024 after about a year together. According to People, the pair separated after deciding to “take a break,” reportedly due to their youth and intense career focus. The breakup led Keoghan to deactivate his Instagram account, as he later addressed on X (Twitter), citing intense online backlash—
dragged across the internet in ways
—Barry Keoghan, actor
He further explained the toll of the scrutiny and his need to prioritize family and work, stating that “too many lines” were “crossed” by critics online. Meanwhile, Carpenter has not publicly stated whether “Manchild” draws from her experiences with Keoghan.
Uncertainty Remains About Song’s True Inspiration
While hints in promotional materials and fan responses have fueled theories linking “Manchild” to Barry Keoghan, Sabrina Carpenter herself has yet to comment directly on the rumors. As the song’s release approaches, interest remains high, with many anticipating more details or a confirmation about whether the speculation holds true. The attention could significantly shape public perception of both artists in the wake of their breakup and foster ongoing conversation among their respective fanbases.
