Christmas is a time for giving, and sharing. But one unexpected gift from Gwen Stefani, some critics say, should come with a “return to sender” tag.
The No Doubt singer is partnering with prayer app Hallow, a move that blindsided many of her decades-long fans.
In a sponsored post earlier this month, Stefani promoted the service which is said to enable its users to get closer to God, for a monthly or yearly payment plan.
“It is important this holiday season to spend time in prayer. That is what Christmas is all about: letting God into our hearts and letting Jesus bring us his peace,” says Stefani, dressed in all-white and wearing a crucifix. “Download Hallow and join me and millions of others in praying every day this advent and Christmas season on Hallow.”
Stefani captioned the “paid partnership” post with the comment, “The season of Advent has always been a reminder to slow down, even when everything around us is moving so fast. It’s such a special time to reflect, pray and make room in your heart for Jesus.”
Since launching the promotion Dec. 2 on Instagram, Stefani’s post has captured more than 19,000 likes, and almost 2,000 comments.
Many are critical, none more so than “A Bit Fruity” podcast host Matt Bernstein, who pointed out that Hallow costs $70 per year, includes prayers and meditations that carry anti-abortion messages, and has connections with Vice President JD Vance and conservative venture capitalist Peter Thiel.
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” says Bernstein, “aka when Gwen Stefani shills for the right-wing anti-abortion pay-to-pray app, Hallow.”
Describing the service as a “pay to pray” app, Berstein says its creators have gone and recruited “everyone’s favorite Hollaback Girl. More like Hallow App Girl.”
Berstein sounds off, “if you’re looking for God this season, you don’t need to give these people $70 to find him. And Gwen Stefani, don’t you have enough goddamn money already?”
Their post has accumulated almost 280,000 likes and 6,000 comments, including one from Selling Sunset star Chrishell Stause, who wrote in the comments section: “Gwen-DON’T SPEAK, a reference to No Doubt’s 1996 hit. “Please take your own advice on this one.”
The timing of Stefani’s collaboration could prove to awkward. Stefani and No Doubt are reuniting for a residency next year at the MSG-owned Sphere in Las Vegas, As previously reported, an initial stretch of 12 shows were booked — and swiftly sold-out — for May 2026. Another six have been added for next June, which are billed as “final” dates of the residency.
