Kim Petras's 'pop girl' tale is both a lesson in cruel irony, as well as a case study in how the outdated formula of, 'make pretty girl sing pretty songs' doesn't work anymore.
She obviously has always wanted to be a 2006 pop star. However, it's so deliciously problematique that the music actually reflects the lack of depth, personality, and identity past her voice.
I believe her and her team believed that her being a transgendered woman would already put her in the forefront of standing apart from the rest, which it had. Especially with Lil' Nas being the aggressive forefront of queer representation in the music industry currently, it wouldn't be too far removed that Kim would naturally have a seat at the table.
But let's be honest here, she has no charisma. While the music (guilty pleasure or not) is part of the formula, it ultimately falls on the artist to sell both themselves and the music. She simply doesn't have that ability, which is why I believe her team is desperately trying to resuscitate or remove their efforts with her completely.
I am optimistic that things will come into play for her in a later time in life, where she's more understanding, educated, and experienced. But until then, shelve that Sam Smith collaboration too.