Katy Perry’s ‘Lifetimes’ Video Sparks Investigation Over Unpermitted Filming in Spain

The production company responsible for Katy Perry’s latest music video, “Lifetimes,” is currently under investigation in Spain for filming in a protected area without proper clearance, according to authorities. On Tuesday, the government of the Balearic Islands, an archipelago located off the eastern coast of Spain, announced in a press release that its Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Natural Environment has initiated an investigation into the filming activities conducted in the Parc Natural de Ses Salines. This national park, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage nature reserve, spans the islands of Ibiza and Formentera and is known for its rich biodiversity and ecological significance.

Reports indicate that a portion of the video was filmed within the dunes on the islet of s’Espalmador, a preserved area within the park. This area is highly valued ecologically due to the unique plants and animals that inhabit it, as emphasized by the tourism authorities of the Balearic Islands. The government’s press release, issued in Spanish, stated that “in no case had the production company requested authorization from the Regional Ministry to carry out the filming,” highlighting the lack of official permission for the shoot.

While the filming was conducted without the necessary authorization, the government clarified that it does not constitute an environmental crime. Filming in the park is permitted, provided that appropriate permissions are obtained in advance. However, the production company involved, WeOwnTheCity, did not secure such clearance. As of Tuesday evening, the authorities had not responded to requests for further comments on the situation.

“Lifetimes,” which premiered on Thursday, is a single from Katy Perry’s upcoming studio album “143,” set to be released in September. The music video showcases Perry singing and dancing on a beach, cliff jumping, and performing in a crowded nightclub. Directed by Stillz and produced by WeOwnTheCity, the video was filmed in various scenic locations, including the Balearic Islands.

In the days leading up to the video’s release, Perry teased her fans with several posts on Instagram. In one post, she wrote, “Sending love from Ibiza,” accompanied by an orange heart emoji. The post included lyrics from “Lifetimes” and a series of postcards featuring images of seaside cliffs, which appear to be outtakes from the music video. The postcards also referenced locations like Ibiza and Formentera, where the Parc Natural de Ses Salines is located.

The islet of s’Espalmador, where part of the video was filmed, is a key feature of the national park. According to the Formentera Island Council Tourism’s website, the park encompasses rich and diverse land and marine habitats that stretch from southern Ibiza to northern Formentera. The park serves as a nesting area for over 200 species of migratory birds and is home to Posidonia, a seagrass species endemic to the Mediterranean Sea. Posidonia plays a crucial role in maintaining the marine environment and protecting water quality. The UNESCO World Heritage designation, granted to the park in 1999, underscores its global importance.

S’Espalmador is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, boasting one of the most well-preserved and stunning beaches in the region. The islet features crystal-clear waters, a forest of pine trees and junipers, and a landscape that has remained largely untouched by human activity. The ecological significance of the area has made it a protected site, and any activities within its boundaries, such as filming, are subject to strict regulations to ensure the preservation of its unique environment.

As of now, WeOwnTheCity has not issued a statement in response to the investigation, and a representative for Katy Perry has yet to comment on the matter. The incident has raised concerns about the responsibilities of production companies when filming in ecologically sensitive areas and the potential impact of such activities on the environment. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what consequences, if any, the production company will face for its actions.