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Sia Just Responded To Criticism Over Her Collaboration With Maddie Ziegler

"I have certainly expanded her exposure and feel responsible for that. I feel very protective of her and my goal is to empower her in whatever choices she makes."

We're all familiar with the work of extraordinary Aussie musician, Sia.

You might remember that, back in 2013, Sia said that she didn't want to be famous because of the effect it was having on her mental and physical health.

This resulted in Sia stepping away from the limelight and donning her now-iconic oversized wig.

And along the way, she also recruited young dance prodigy, Maddie Ziegler, to be her "face" in her performances and music videos.

Now, there's no questioning that Maddie and Sia have an important relationship, especially considering that, in most of Sia's music videos, Maddie is portraying a younger version of Sia.

The relationship was recently discussed in this article in the Guardian, which wondered whether Sia, who had previously dealt with the ugly side of fame, had unwittingly handed this over to 15-year-old Maddie.

Sia was quick to respond.

This article poses a question I have asked myself often. I do check in with Maddie weekly about whether she wants t… https://t.co/1BtMAPCttf

With their children, clients, charges. Maddie was already famous when I discovered her, but I have certainly expand… https://t.co/QBifaYpjuk

Can't or shouldn't be charged with making sound choices for themselves and so I do try to choose the best for her a… https://t.co/4DsOjFOe7b

What I learned from Maddie is that fame affects her differently than how it affected me. I can only trust that she… https://t.co/f5CjHdf5ck

And of course, her loyal fans had her back.

@Sia You guys has a special relationship and we trust both of your guys judgment on every issue, keep going!

@Sia I love how protective you are of Maddie. It’s so important that children are allowed to be children for as long as possible. ❤️❤️❤️

@Sia You don't have to explain but If you want it's ok. We can see how beautiful your friendship with Maddie is

@Sia We need more people like you in this world. We don’t deserve you Sia! Thank you for protecting Maddie and your… https://t.co/gX8tJhkuOK