Pop icon Kesha has graced the cover of Cosmopolitan Australia’s December issue and spoke to the publication about her new music and journey to reclaiming her voice after a decade-long legal battle with her former producer.
Known for her party girl pop persona, Kesha is entering a new era – one defined by artistic freedom, spirituality, and shamelessly owning her sexuality. Her new album, (period), is the first she has created entirely outside the control of her former producer.
“I wanted to immortalise what it would sound like really gaining back the rights to myself,” she said, reflecting on a transformative moment in her career.
Kesha spoke about embracing desire without shame and said: “Society has put shame on me because I like a f*cking red flag? Fuck that. I do like a red flag, they’re hot. Shame on me for being a woman in my body who is a sexual person at times or whose body fluctuates at times? F*ck that.”
She also shares the inspiration behind her Tits Out Tour, describing it as a spiritual, queer, and radically accepting space she never had growing up: “I wanted this to be the queer church I was looking for when I was in high school.”
In the feature, Kesha positions her happiness as a political and feminist act: “I think as a woman who’s gone through what I’ve gone through, my joy is such a political statement. It’s such a feminist statement for me to be happy, for me to believe in myself, and for me to just be standing on my own two feet, independent and whole.”
She also touches on her biggest competition and the evolving music landscape: “I think it’s amazing that now we’re living in a time where it’s more collaborative, and artists – and especially women – can just appreciate and love and honour each other. The only competition I have is with being the most authentic version of myself.” She added, “I fucking hope they win the Grammy.”
The creative direction for Kesha’s cover shoot drew on the chic glamour of the late ’60s and ’70s, with photographer Sam Clare working closely with Kesha’s team to bring the vision to life.
Inspired by Kesha’s love of Bowie, her rock ’n’ roll edge, and a touch of commercial LA style, the shoot unfolded in a retro-style home in Gruin Gallery in the Hollywood Hills. The concept evolved naturally, taking on a sultrier, moodier vibe as the team shot multiple looks.
From a shimmering Zimmerman dress to a laid-back denim look and a stunning high-neck cut-out dress for the cover, the shoot captured various sides of Kesha – chic, sophisticated and effortlessly timeless.
Katarina Kroslakova, Publisher and Editor in Chief, said: “Kesha felt like the natural choice for our December cover. This era of hers, fiercely independent, spiritually expansive and unapologetically sensual, is unlike anything we’ve seen from her before.
“After a decade fighting for her autonomy, she’s finally creating entirely on her own terms. Our December issue is about power, pleasure and possibility, and Kesha embodies all three. She’s stepping into a chapter defined not by survival but by self-possession, and I think our readers will see in her story a reminder that owning your voice, loudly, messily and without apology, is its own form of victory.”
This December issue of Cosmopolitan Australia also shines a light on the next wave of local talent shaping culture across Australia and New Zealand. Creative director and undeniable cool girl Yasmin Suteja shares her love language and relationship advice in a candid Q&A.
Gemma Chua Tran, fresh from Heartbreak High’s global success, stuns in a new shoot, actor Zoe Terakes opens up about their debut book, and rising pop star Charley discusses new music and why pop music is so back. And, in true Cosmo spirit, the iconic Sealed Section features a sex-positive Christmas gift guide designed to bring a little extra spice to the holiday season.
Cosmopolitan Australia’s December issue is on sale nationwide at newsagents and online from 1 December 2025.
Journalist: Ella Sangster
Photography: Sam Clare
Styling: Oretta Corbelli at Honey Artists
Hair: Eduardo Ponce At Opus Beauty
Makeup: Leo Chaparro At Paradis Agency
Styling Assistant: Allegra Gargiulo
Production Assistant: Camryn Spratt
Photo Assistants: Brooks Gallo, Danya Morrison