Some rumors spread so far and for so long that they take on a life of their own. That’s exactly what happened to Avril Lavigne, who has spent years hearing wild claims that she died in 2003 and was secretly replaced. For many fans, the story became an odd mix of curiosity and confusion.

The rumor first surfaced online almost two decades ago. It suggested that Avril passed away shortly after her hit album Let Go, and a body double named Melissa stepped in. People pointed to tiny changes in her appearance and even a photoshoot where she had “Melissa” written on her hand.

The turning point came when Avril finally addressed the theory head-on. On a recent podcast, she laughed at the idea and said it didn’t bother her much. She joked that if you’re going to get a rumor, at least this one isn’t scary or cruel.

She has spoken about it before too, calling it “so dumb” and “weird” that anyone believed it. Avril noted that some people say she hasn’t aged at all, while others insist she looks completely different. Either way, she finds the whole thing more amusing than alarming.

Fans continue to compare photos from 20 years ago, hunting for differences that might prove the theory. But aging, changing styles, and life itself can explain far more than any conspiracy.

In the end, Avril says she’s still very much herself—and maybe the real mystery is why we love stories that stretch so far from the truth.