Justin Bieber Shares Why He’s Staying in Los Angeles Despite Paparazzi Incident

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

By Lena Whitmore

staff writer

April 25, 2025

Justin Bieber is making it clear, he’s not going anywhere.

Following a tense incident in Los Angeles where the 31-year-old was swarmed by paparazzi while exiting a building with his security team, Bieber took to Instagram Stories on April 24 to explain why he won’t be leaving the city anytime soon.

“Everyone telling me to move from LA,” the Peaches singer wrote. “U think I’m gonna get bullied to leave where my influence is most needed? How can we make a change if we run away from the darkness?”

In the video he shared, Justin was seen recording the photographers with his phone while his security team tried to shield him from the aggressive flashing lights. The confrontation raised concerns among fans, but Bieber remained firm about staying grounded not just for himself, but for a greater purpose.

“It’s embarrassing,” he admitted. “But with that said, I want nothing to do with that [Hollywood superficiality] as a grown adult with a wife and son. I just want to be submerged in the culture, learning from any and everyone. And be a proponent and advocate for LOVE AND EQUALITY.”

The Canadian-born star, who now shares life in LA with wife Hailey Bieber and their 8-month-old son Jack Blues Bieber, has been increasingly transparent on social media. Addressing the swirling rumors around his marriage on the same day as the paparazzi incident, Justin posted:

“They treat me like ass out here, but I remember that I am flawed and God forgave me,” he reflected. “It helps me to stop feeling better than those who are mean and hurtful because when I'm really honest, I can be mean and hurtful too.”

And as for the naysayers who doubt his relationship?

“Honestly if I was u, it would be hard not to be jealous of me and Hailey going brazzzzyy,” he wrote. “It’s really up for us and that’s understandable why people can’t stand it. I don’t blame ‘em.”

Justin even compared the couple to pop culture’s most elusive icons: “The Joneses… who are impossible to keep up with.”

If there was any doubt about their bond, Hailey put it to rest later that same day. While accepting the Innovator Award at the Daily Front Row’s 9th Annual Fashion Awards, the Rhode Beauty founder gave a sweet shoutout to her husband.

“I want to thank my husband,” she said on stage. “For supporting the dream of mine from the beginning and for always cheering me on.”