Puck<\/em>\u2018s Matt Belloni also reported that Olivia Rodrigo, who appears in the documentary as well, was meant to be a surprise guest.<\/p>\n\n\tMcLachlan introduced the film and confirmed that the performances were canceled due to Kimmel\u2019s controversial suspension.<\/p>\n
\n\t\u201cIt\u2019s a gift for all of us to see [this film], but also I\u2019ve grappled with being here tonight and around what to say about the present situation that we are all faced with, the stark contraction to the many advances we\u2019ve made watching the insidious erosion of women\u2019s rights, of trans and queer rights, the muzzling of free speech,\u201d McLachlan said. \u201cI think we\u2019re all fearful for what comes next, and none of us know, but what I do know is that I have to keep pushing forward as an artist, as a woman to find a way through, and though I don\u2019t begin to know what the answer is, I believe we all need to work towards a softening to let in the possibility of a better way, because I see\u00a0music\u00a0as a bridge to our shared humanity, to finding common ground.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n\tShe continued: \u201cIf Lilith taught me anything, it taught me there is a great strength in coming together to lift each other up instead of tearing each other down. So I really hope this documentary inspires everyone to continue to try and create positive change in your communities, to keep lifting each other up, keep championing the causes you believe in with kindness and empathy because ultimately, we\u2019re all in this together.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n
\t\tTrending Stories<\/p>\n<\/h2>\n<\/section>\n
\n\tAs she wrapped up her remarks, she further explained why there would be no performances at the event. \u201cI know you\u2019re expecting a performance tonight, and I\u2019m so grateful to all of you for coming, and I apologize if this is disappointing, but we have collectively decided not to perform but instead to stand in solidarity in support of free speech,\u201d McLachlan said. \u201cThank you for your understanding.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n