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Taylor Swift's net worth has reached the billions thanks to her showstopping Eras Tour — see how the pop star makes and spends her fortune

Taylor Swift performs "The Man" during the Eras Tour in Toronto.
Taylor Swift performs during the Eras Tour in Toronto.

Emma McIntyre/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

  • Taylor Swift's net worth is $1.6 billion, according to Forbes.
  • The pop star is a prolific songwriter who's amassed a significant fortune throughout her career.
  • Here's how Swift earns and spends her money, from real estate to charitable donations.

Taylor Swift never fails to impress.

At 15, she was the youngest songwriter to ever sign with Sony. Now in her 30s, Swift has 14 Grammys on her shelf — including four for album of the year, the most of any artist in history — several tours under her belt, a long list of chart-topping songs, and a beloved fan base who dub themselves "Swifties."

Such success makes Swift one of the world's highest-paid celebrities and one of the richest female singers. According to a Bloomberg News analysis published on the eve of her "1989" album rerelease, Swift has built a billion-dollar empire.

Forbes later confirmed her billion-plus net worth, citing in part her massive Eras Tour and its subsequent concert movie.

With another new album on the horizon, "The Life of a Showgirl," Swift stands to increase her fortune even more.

See how Swift earns and spends her money below.

Hillary Hoffower, Libby Torres, and Taylor Nicole Rogers contributed to an earlier version of this story.

Taylor Swift has an estimated net worth of $1.6 billion.
Taylor Swift onstage at the 2025 Grammys. She's wearing a red sparkly mini dress, red heels, and red lipstick and holding an envelope.
Taylor Swift onstage at the 2025 Grammys.

Sonja Flemming/CBS via Getty Images

According to Forbes, which published a series of 2024 billionaire reports, Swift is the first musician to reach 10-figure status solely based on songwriting and performances rather than brand deals, makeup lines, or business ventures.

Swift's vast fortune is primarily thanks to her valuable discography and earnings from streaming deals, music sales, concert tickets, and merchandise.

Representatives for Swift did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider regarding the 2024 Forbes report.

As of August 13, 2025, Forbes estimates Swift's net worth to be $1.6 billion.

The pop star's record-breaking Eras Tour, which began in March 2023, propelled the singer to billionaire status.
Taylor Swift performs "You Need to Calm Down" during the Eras Tour.
Taylor Swift performs "You Need to Calm Down" during the Eras Tour.

Kevin Mazur/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Swift's 21-month, five-continent Eras Tour was nothing short of a sensation. By the end of its first year, it had become the first tour to gross over $1 billion in revenue and was on track to become the highest-grossing tour of all time. 

In October 2023, after Swift toured 56 dates across the US and Mexico, the Eras Tour had already generated $780 million and added $4.3 billion to America's gross domestic product, according to Bloomberg Economics.

Throughout 2024, Swift also made stops in Tokyo, Australia, Singapore, Canada, and 11 countries throughout Europe.

By the end of its run, the Eras Tour had grossed over $2 billion.
Taylor Swift takes a bow while performing at the Eras Tour.
Taylor Swift takes a bow while performing at the Eras Tour.

Emma McIntyre/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

The morning of Swift's final performance in Vancouver, The New York Times reported that the Eras Tour had crossed the $2 billion threshold, making it the first concert tour in history to do so.

This figure was confirmed by Taylor Swift Touring, the singer's production company. All 149 stadium shows were sold out, and the company said over 10 billion people attended the Eras Tour.

That means the average ticket sold for $204, well above the industry average for top concert tours, per The New York Times. Resale tickets were even pricier, often going for thousands in secondhand markets. (Artists like Swift don't earn anything from resold tickets.)

The movie version of the tour broke box-office records before it was even released. It grossed more than $261 million worldwide.
taylor swift eras tour movie premiere

Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images

Worldwide ticket presales had already exceeded $100 million before "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" was released (a day early) on October 12, 2023, AMC Theatres reported.

According to ticketing service Fandango, the film set a record for the highest first-day ticket sales in 2023. It has also become the highest-grossing concert movie of all time, surpassing "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never."

Swift, who bypassed movie studios to personally fund the concert movie, received half of the film's box office earnings. It grossed $261 million worldwide.

Swift cashed in on her blockbuster Eras Tour movie again by selling the streaming rights to Disney for more than $75 million.
Taylor Swift performs onstage for the opening night of "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour" at State Farm Stadium on March 17, 2023.

Kevin Winter/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Once "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" had left theaters, Swift struck a deal with Disney+ to release the film's extended version on streaming.

According to Puck News, Disney paid upward of $75 million for the exclusive rights.

Citing anonymous sources, the outlet reported that Disney's Bob Iger outbid Netflix and Universal Pictures (which handled VOD distribution for the film in December) for the streaming rights by offering a huge sum, which the other two streamers couldn't match.

Swift also released an Eras Tour photo book, which sold over 800,000 copies in its first weekend.
Taylor Swift's "Eras Tour" book for sale at Target.
"The Eras Tour Book" was sold for $39.99 at Target.

Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu via Getty Images

Shortly before the Eras Tour concluded, Swift released a photo book for Black Friday.

As she did with the Eras Tour film, Swift circumvented traditional routes and opted to self-publish instead, ensuring she would get more of the book's revenue.

The book was exclusively available at Target and sold hundreds of thousands of copies in its first weekend, becoming the second-best-selling non-fiction title after Barack Obama's presidential memoir.

Swift has endorsement deals and partnerships with high-profile brands.
Taylor Swift's 2022 Capitol One commercial.
Taylor Swift's 2022 Capitol One commercial.

Capital One/YouTube

Throughout her career, Swift has partnered with brands like Capital One, AT&T, Stella McCartney, Elizabeth Arden perfumes, American Express, Keds, Diet Coke, Walmart, and Apple.

But touring has long been Swift's biggest money maker. The 1989 World Tour grossed more than $250 million in 2015.
taylor swift 1989 tour
Taylor Swift performs during the 1989 World Tour in Sydney, Australia.

Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

The 1989 World Tour was the year's highest-grossing concert tour by far, according to the Los Angeles Times.

She earned even more during her Reputation Stadium Tour in 2018.
taylor swift reputation tour

Alexander Tamargo/TAS18/Getty Images for TAS

Billboard reported that at the time, the Reputation Stadium Tour broke the record for the highest-grossing US tour ever. Swift earned an average of $7 million per show, more than double the US per-concert average during the "1989" tour.

But her tours don't just bring in ticket sales. Swift also makes a huge sum of money from merch.
taylor swift merch eras tour fans
Taylor Swift fans buy merch at an Eras Tour stop in Melbourne, Australia.

Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images

In April 2023, Forbes estimated that Swift's coveted on-site merchandise — which she sells at an average price of $80 —could add an estimated $87 million in proceeds to her fortune.

Swift made $52 million in 2021 after rerecording earlier work that was acquired (and then sold) by Scooter Braun.
Taylor Swift Red (Taylor's Version)
The cover art for "Red (Taylor's Version)" was photographed by Beth Garrabrant.

Taylor Swift/UMG

Swift embarked on a mission to rerecord her first six albums after Scooter Braun, whom she accused of "incessant, manipulative bullying," purchased the legal rights to her back catalog in 2019. (He later sold the master recordings to Shamrock Capital, a private-equity company, in a reported $300 million sale.)

Swift released the first installment in the series, "Fearless (Taylor's Version)," in 2021. It debuted atop the Billboard 200 — indicating this would be a lucrative venture for Swift. Later that year, Swift's new version of "Red" became one of the year's top-selling albums.

The two rerecorded albums helped place Swift on the "The Highest-Paid Entertainers 2022" report from Forbes.

She has since released "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)" and "1989 (Taylor's Version)." The latter sold over 1.6 million equivalent units in its first week, surpassing the original's total.

Swift amassed an estimated $230 million in record sales following the release of her 2022 album "Midnights."
Taylor Swift performs "Midnight Rain" during the Eras Tour.
Taylor Swift performs "Midnight Rain" during the Eras Tour.

Gregor Fischer/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

According to The Guardian, the massive sales for her 10th album, "Midnights," brought in $230 million for Swift's label Universal. 

With more than 1.5 million equivalent album units earned in the US in its first week, "Midnights" landed the biggest week for an album in seven years (since Swift's own album "Reputation").

Swift's latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department," sold millions of copies in a matter of weeks.
Taylor Swift performs during the Eras Tour.
Taylor Swift performs during the Eras Tour.

Shirlaine Forrest/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Swift's 11th studio album, "The Tortured Poets Department," was released on April 19, 2024. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 2.61 million equivalent album units sold in its first week, the second-biggest single-week total in history.

This sum was thanks to high streaming numbers and physical album sales, especially vinyl sales, which Swift pushes more successfully than anyone else. According to a Billboard report from November 2023, one in every 15 vinyls sold in the US is one of Swift's.

Fans continued to buy and stream "Poets" throughout the year, sending it to No. 1 for 17 weeks, the most of any album in 2024.

On November 30, 2024, "Poets" was certified 6x platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, meaning it has sold at least 6 million copies in the US.

In 2025, Swift announced she had bought back her masters, which will likely increase her net worth over time.
Taylor Swift performs "Look What You Made Me Do" at the Eras Tour.
Taylor Swift performs "Look What You Made Me Do" at the Eras Tour.

John Shearer/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

On May 30, 2025, Swift announced she had bought back her masters from Shamrock Capital.

"All I've ever wanted was the opportunity to work hard enough to be able to one day purchase my music outright with no strings attached, no partnership, with full autonomy," Swift wrote in an open letter to fans. "I will be forever grateful to everyone at Shamrock Capital for being the first people to ever offer this to me."

The purchase gave Swift full ownership of her life's work — including her albums, music videos, and concert films — for the first time in her career.

Swift did not disclose the terms of the deal, but sources told Billboard that she paid about $360 million, meaning Shamrock "did not make much, if any, profit off the sale of the assets."

After Swift launched her rerecording venture, many devoted fans refused to listen to the original recordings of her first six albums, which they called the "stolen versions." The masters owned by Shamrock became systematically devalued with each "Taylor's Version" release, likely giving her leverage in their negotiations.

Now that the masters belong to Swift, fans will once again feel free to stream and buy those albums, making them more valuable in her hands. Swift will also be able to sell physical copies, use the photography and artwork for merchandise, and license the songs for commercial use. She will continue to earn royalties from the "Taylor's Version" releases as well as the originals.

"Ownership of the six masters will undoubtedly improve Taylor's take-home pay," Larry Miller, director of the Music Business Program at New York University, told Newsweek. "Under Braun's and Shamrock's ownership, Taylor declined requests to license the original masters for film and TV. Now they'll be licensed, and the old, much-loved masters will generate revenue for the rest of her life — and beyond."

Swift has amassed an impressive fortune — and she knows how to spend it. Her real-estate portfolio is worth a reported $110 million.
Taylor Swift attends the 2018 American Music Awards at Microsoft Theater on October 9, 2018 in Los Angeles, California.

Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Swift's real-estate portfolio consists of eight properties in four different states.

In Nashville, she owns a 3,240-square-foot condo worth an estimated $3 million and a 5,600-square-foot Greek Revival estate worth an estimated $2.5 million.
taylor swift cowboy boots CMA Music Festival 2007
Taylor Swift moved to Nashville as a teenager.

Rusty Russell/Getty Images

The latter is the cheapest property she owns.

In LA, Swift owns a 10,982-square-foot Beverly Hills mansion worth nearly $30 million.
taylor swift brother austin swift
Austin and Taylor Swift attend the 2013 Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

Christopher Polk/NBC

In 2017, she was trying to turn it into a historic landmark, according to Teen Vogue.

Across the coast, Swift owns an estate with seaside views in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, for which she reportedly paid $17.75 million.
taylor swift watch hill mansion
Taylor Swift's Rhode Island mansion photographed during the eye of the Tropical Storm Henri on August 22, 2021

Matthew J. Lee/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

With 12,000 square feet, it has plenty of room for parties and even inspired her song "The Last Great American Dynasty."

But that's nothing compared to the estimated $40 million worth of property Swift owns in New York City on the same block in Tribeca.
taylor swift street style 2018
Taylor Swift outside her Tribeca apartment in 2018.

TheStewartofNY/GC Images

That includes an 8,309-square-foot duplex penthouse and a four-story townhouse.

She used to rent an apartment on Cornelia Street — the famous inspiration behind her "Lover" track "Cornelia Street" — which was listed in 2023 with a $17.9 million price tag.

Swift needs a way to travel among all these homes. She reportedly owns a Dassault private jet.
taylor swift

Andrew H. Walker/Getty

The Dassault 7X is registered to Island Jet Inc., a holding company listed under the same address as Taylor Swift Productions.

Swift used to have two private jets, but she quietly sold one amid criticism of her carbon footprint. ("Taylor's jet is loaned out regularly to other individuals," a rep for Swift said in a statement. "To attribute most or all of these trips to her is blatantly incorrect.")

There's no word on how much she paid for these vehicles, but a brand-new Dassault 900 has a list price of $44 million, according to Business Jet Traveler. Elon Musk owns a similar model that costs about $26 million.

Swift often spends money dining out with her friends and partner, especially when in New York City.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce leave Waverly Inn in New York City on Sunday.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce leave Waverly Inn in New York City on Sunday.

Gotham/Getty Images

In the past, she's been spotted at The Fat Radish, The Spotted Pig, Sarabeth's, L'Asso, Nobu, and Vita Carota.

But Swift has always been generous with her money, supporting causes and helping those in need.
taylor swift nashville symphony donation
Taylor Swift and Alan Valentine at the 2011 Nashville Symphony Ball.

Royce DeGrie/Getty Images

On her 24th birthday, she donated $100,000 to the Nashville Symphony, according to People.

Swift pledged $4 million to the Country Music Hall of Fame to fund an education center.
taylor swift education center
The Taylor Swift Education Center officially opened in 2013.

Royce DeGrie/TAS/Getty Images for TAS

Her commitment to education doesn't stop with music; Swift also donated $50,000 to New York City public schools, People reported.

She has donated millions to support victims of natural disasters.
taylor swift iheart radio awards 2016

David Buchan/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images

In 2010, Swift donated $500,000 to Nashville flood relief, and in 2016, she donated $1 million to the victims of the Louisiana floods.

Swift also raised $750,000 through a Speak Now Help Now benefit concert for victims of tornadoes in the southern US in 2011, according to People.

More recently, Swift made a $5 million donation to communities affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.

Swift has also been known to support victims of gun violence in recent years.

In 2020, Swift gave $50,000 to a mother of five who lost her husband to COVID-19 days before Christmas.
Taylor Swift with fans in 2019.
Taylor Swift with fans in 2019.

Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

She and her mom, Andrea Swift, quietly made the donation, according to USA Today.

She also gifted $13,000 each to two moms who were also struggling financially because of the pandemic.

Swift has made several generous donations to LGBTQ+ organizations.
taylor swift stonewall inn
Taylor Swift performs at the Stonewall Inn during Pride Month in 2019.

Craig Barritt/Getty Images for AEG

Swift has long been an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, threading references to the fight for equal rights into songs like "Welcome to New York" and "You Need to Calm Down."

Back in 2016, Swift participated in a charity auction to help keep the historic Stonewall Inn operational. The New York City gay bar was the scene of a police raid in 1969, sparking a riot that helped launch the nationwide fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

In more recent years, Swift has made generous donations to the Tennessee Equality Project and GLAAD, in addition to her vocal support of The Equality Act.

And then there are the two famous checks she wrote for $1,989 — an ode to her best-selling album — sent to two fans to pay a student loan and to donate to a dance marathon benefit.
taylor swift fans
Taylor Swift greets fans at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival.

Wesley Lapointe/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

The checks were sent out in 2014, according to People.

Throughout the Eras Tour, Swift donated huge amounts to food banks along her route.
Taylor Swift performs during her "Eras Tour."
Taylor Swift performs during her "Eras Tour."

AP Photo/George Walker IV

Throughout the first US leg of her Eras Tour, Swift habitually made large donations to local food pantries. She continued this tradition throughout the tour's European leg.

Swift also helps out her fellow pop stars. She gave Kesha $250,000 to help with legal fees during her lawsuit against Dr. Luke.
kesha
Kesha performs in 2018.

Joseph Okpako/WireImage

For several years, Kesha was embroiled in a defamation lawsuit after she accused the music producer Dr. Luke, her former mentor, of "unrelenting abuse" and rape. (Dr. Luke denied the allegations, and they reached a settlement in 2023.)

The "Rainbow" singer revealed Swift's donation during an interview with Rolling Stone in 2017.

Kesha described Swift as "a fucking sweetheart. Very, very sweet, very, very genuine, extremely generous, picks up the phone every time I call her. My mom doesn't even always pick up the phone!"

Swift has proven herself to be incredibly savvy with investments.
Taylor Swift attends the 2022 MTV VMAs at Prudential Center on August 28, 2022 in Newark, New Jersey.
Taylor Swift.

Getty/Jamie McCarthy

In 2022, Swift pulled out of a $100 million sponsorship deal with Sam Bankman-Fried's FTX after she questioned whether the company was selling "unregistered securities."

As Business Insider previously reported, many other celebrities, such as Tom Brady and Stephen Curry, failed to do so and were subsequently sued for endorsing the now-bankrupt crypto exchange.

Read the original article on Business Insider

  •  

A complete timeline of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's relationship

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are seen in SoHo on October 11, 2024 in New York City.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in October 2024.

TheStewartofNY/GC Images/Getty Images

  • Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have been dating since the summer of 2023.
  • The pop star and athlete, both 35, have gushed about each other in interviews.
  • Swift is currently rolling out her new album, "The Life of a Showgirl," with Kelce's help.

We'll take a wild guess and say that Travis Kelce's favorite track from Taylor Swift's "Midnights" might be "Mastermind."

Shortly after he turned up to the Eras Tour with a friendship bracelet and a dream, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end began dating the multi-Grammy-winning superstar.

Kelce, 35, laid the groundwork in the summer of 2023. He made his feelings known for Swift, 35, after he failed to get some one-on-one time when she performed on his home turf in Missouri. Soon, all the dominoes cascaded in a line: Swift began attending NFL games, openly cheering for the Chiefs, and stepping out with Kelce for date nights in New York City. 

Here's a complete timeline of their relationship so far.

July 8, 2023: Kelce attends Swift's Eras Tour show stop in Kansas City.
Travis Kelce points (left); Taylor Swift smiles.
Travis Kelce (left) and Taylor Swift.

Ed Zurga, George Walker/AP

Kelce officially entered his Swiftie era when he attended the second of the "Anti-Hero" singer's two performances on his home turf.

Before the concert at Arrowhead Stadium, Kelce was seen chatting with other Swifties and even trading friendship bracelets, according to a video posted on X (formerly Twitter).

July 26, 2023: A few weeks later, Kelce says on his podcast that he wanted to give Swift his number at the show.
Travis Kelce discussed his failed attempt at wooing Taylor Swift on his podcast, "New Heights."
Travis Kelce discussed his failed attempt at wooing Taylor Swift on his podcast, "New Heights."

YouTube/New Heights Show

Speaking on his podcast, "New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce," the athlete said he was "butt hurt" because he couldn't give Swift a friendship bracelet (a tradition among Swift's concertgoers) that included his phone number.

"I was disappointed that she doesn't talk before or after her shows because she has to save her voice for the 44 songs that she sings," Kelce told his brother and cohost, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce.

Jason then asked which number he put on the bracelet — the number on his Kansas City Chiefs jersey (87) or his phone number. 

"You know which one," Travis responded. He also quipped that while Swift "doesn't meet anybody" before her shows, he "took it personal."

According to Swift, she and Kelce began dating "right after" the podcast episode aired.
travis kelce taylor swift
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift photographed in July 2023.

JC Olivera/Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images

In an interview with Time magazine, Swift confirmed her relationship with Kelce and offered details about the beginning of their romance. 

"This all started when Travis very adorably put me on blast on his podcast, which I thought was metal as hell," she said. "We started hanging out right after that. So we actually had a significant amount of time that no one knew, which I'm grateful for, because we got to get to know each other."

September 21, 2023: Kelce says he's "thrown the ball in her court" and invites Swift to one of his football games.
Travis Kelce rests his hands on his collar while looking off to the side during a Chiefs game.
Travis Kelce.

Lachlan Cunningham/AP Images

Two months after his podcast episode, Kelce told ESPN's Pat McAfee that after trying to woo the Grammy winner with a friendship bracelet, he extended an invite to one of his upcoming games.

"I told her, 'I've seen you rock the stage at Arrowhead, you might have to come see me rock the stage at Arrowhead and see which one's a little more lit,'" Kelce said in the interview.

 "So we'll see what happens in the near future," he added.

September 24, 2023: Swift attends the Chiefs game against the Chicago Bears three days later.
Taylor Swift cheers from a suite with Donna Kelce as the Kansas City Chiefs play the Chicago Bears during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri.
Taylor Swift cheering from a suite with Donna Kelce as the Kansas City Chiefs play the Chicago Bears on September 24, 2023.

Cooper Neill via Getty Images

Swift sent the internet into meltdown when she accepted to Kelce's invitation. However, according to Swift, the lovebirds were already official by the time she attended her first game on September 24.

"By the time I went to that first game, we were a couple," she told Time. "I think some people think that they saw our first date at that game? We would never be psychotic enough to hard launch a first date."

On that fated day, Swift was photographed wearing Kansas City colors as she watched the game from Kelce's private suite, alongside his mom, Donna Kelce.

When Kelce — already considered one of the best tight ends in NFL history — hauled in a touchdown pass from Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the third quarter, Swift rose to her feet and cheered.

After chest-bumping with another spectator in the box, the singer appeared to shout, "Let's fucking go!" as Mama Kelce smiled and applauded.

After the game, images of Kelce and Swift walking out of the stadium together and driving off in his old-school convertible car were shared on X.

The pair ended their night at Prime Social Rooftop, which Kelce rented out for Swift, his family, and his teammates, per Entertainment Tonight. In photos obtained by TMZ, the couple wasn't shy about showing their affection for each other as Swift was seen wrapping her arm around Kelce's neck as they chatted with other partygoers.

In the days following, an anonymous source told People that Kelce and Swift had been "hanging out" and were still in the "super, super early days" of getting to know each other. 

"They're having fun," the source told the outlet. "This was Taylor's first time meeting his mom and dad, and everyone was enjoying themselves."

Meanwhile, Kelce debriefed the Swift-inspired frenzy on his podcast. He thanked her for "pulling up" to his game, saying he "sure as hell enjoyed this weekend."

September 27, 2023: Kelce speaks about Swift again on his podcast.
travis kelce
Travis Kelce on the field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 24, 2023.

Cooper Neill/Getty Images

During an episode of "New Heights," Kelce joked that his personal life is "not so personal" anymore.

"Shout out to Taylor for pulling up," he said. "That was pretty ballsy."

Kelce went on to praise Swift for her behavior with his family at her first Chiefs game.

"I just thought it was awesome how everyone in the suite had nothing but great things to say about her. The friends and family," he said. "She looked amazing, everybody was talking about her in great light. And on top of that the day went perfect for Chiefs fans, of course."

"To see the slow motion chest bumps, to see the high fives with mom," he continued. "To see how Chiefs kingdom was all excited that she was there, that shit was absolutely hysterical and it was definitely a game I'll remember that's for damn sure. And then we just slid off in the getaway car at the end."

October 1, 2023: Swift attends a second Chiefs game a week later — and brings some of her famous friends.
Taylor Swift and Blake Lively cheer from the stands during an NFL football game between the New York Jets and the Kansas City Chiefs at MetLife Stadium
Taylor Swift with MetLife Stadium.

Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

During the Chiefs game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in New York, Swift supported Kelce again and brought along some A-list pals.

Swift was spotted watching the game alongside Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Sabrina Carpenter, Hugh Jackman, Sophie Turner, and Antoni Porowski. 

While Swift and Kelce left the stadium separately, it seems they had spent some time together beforehand; the Super Bowl champion was spotted by Page Six leaving Swift's New York apartment that morning.

October 4, 2023: Kelce tries to get the NFL to pull back on its coverage of Swift at his games, declaring on his podcast, "They're overdoing it."
Travis Kelce, left, and Taylor Swift, right, at Arrowhead Stadium.
Travis Kelce, left, and Taylor Swift, right, at Arrowhead Stadium.

Denny Medley/USA Today/Reuters; Jason Hanna/Getty Images

Kelce said the NFL had gone overboard in their coverage of Swift during an episode of his podcast, released on October 4. 

"I think it's fun when they show who all is at the game. I think it brings a little more to the atmosphere, brings a little bit more to what you're watching," Kelce said.

"But at the same time, I think they're overdoing it a little bit," he continued.

NBC Sports, which aired the game, frequently cut to shots of Swift cheering on the Chiefs. The NFL also briefly changed its bios on Instagram and X to reference Swift after the Chiefs beat the Jets.

In response, the NFL defended its coverage of the pair in a statement obtained by ESPN

October 5, 2023: Kelce celebrates his 34th birthday. Swift reportedly flies to Missouri to spend the weekend with him.
A collage of two photos side by side. The image on the left is Travis Kelce, #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs, while the image on the right is of Taylor Swift.
A collage of Kansas City Chiefs' Travis Kelce and pop star Taylor Swift.

Christian Petersen/Getty Images and Omar Vega/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

According to multiple outlets, the "Fearless" singer spent a few days with Kelce following his 34th birthday.

Us WeeklyPage Six, and the Daily Mail reported that Swift flew from her home in Nashville, Tennessee to Kansas City, Missouri the day after his birthday.

The two were not seen out together, and an anonymous source told Us Weekly that the pair chose to have a "chill night" together. It's unknown when Swift left, but she was not present at the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Minnesota Vikings the following Sunday.

October 12, 2023: Swift shows up to her third Chiefs game, one day after premiering "The Eras Tour" movie.
Taylor Swift attended her third Chiefs game on October 12.
Taylor Swift attended her third Chiefs game on October 12.

RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

The "Cruel Summer" singer returned to the Arrowhead Stadium to cheer on Kelce as his team took on the Denver Broncos.

In a video shared by People, Swift was seen wearing a Chiefs-branded jacket for the game, where she caught up with Kelce's parents in the family suite. She was also seen speaking with Brittany Mahomes, the wife of Kelce's teammate, Patrick Mahomes.

Photos published by Mail Online showed what appeared to be Swift's security team outside Kelce's home until Friday afternoon, suggesting that the pop star had stayed the night.

Kelce's mother later discussed the "whirlwind" caused by Swift's game-day appearances.

"I thought it would be over at that point, but it seems to just continue, and every week just seems to trump the week before," Donna said during an episode of the "Got It From My Momma" podcast. "So it's really kind of wild, a wild ride." 

October 14, 2023: The couple is photographed holding hands in public for the first time.
travis kelce taylor swift snl after party new york city
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift attended the "SNL" after-party on October 15, 2023.

Gotham/GC Images

Swift and Kelce were photographed holding hands after enjoying a date night in New York City.

The outing marked the first time the two have been photographed by paparazzi in public together, and many took it as confirmation of their relationship.

Their first public display of affection came after the pair dined at celebrity hot spot Nobu, per photos and video obtained by TMZ and Page Six. 

Swift and Kelce later went to Rockefeller Center, where they made separate surprise appearances on NBC's "Saturday Night Live." They finished the night at the show's after-party, pictures from Getty Images showed.

October 15, 2023: One day after crashing "SNL," Kelce and Swift hold hands again after dining together in New York City.
taylor swift travis kelce new york city
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in New York City on October 15, 2023.

Gotham/GC Images

Swift and Kelce were photographed by paparazzi after spending Sunday night at Waverly Inn

Swift has dined at the West Village hot spot before, most notably in 2016 with Cara Delevingne, Lorde, and Jack Antonoff.

October 22, 2023: Swift attends another of Kelce's games in Kansas City.
taylor swift kansas city chiefs game
Taylor Swift at Arrowhead Stadium on October 22, 2023.

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Just a few days before the release of "1989 (Taylor's Version)," Swift was on hand to support the Kansas City Chiefs as they took on the Los Angeles Chargers.

She was filmed cheering for Kelce, looking concerned when he fell, and performing an elaborate handshake with Brittany Mahomes.

Swift and Kelce were also photographed together at a post-game party, alongside Kelce's teammate, Mecole Hardman Jr., and his girlfriend, Chariah Gordon.

Gordon shared a series of photos on Instagram, including one of Swift kissing Kelce on the cheek.

October 22, 2023: Jason Kelce says that Travis is "excited" about his new relationship.
jason kelce travis kelce superbowl
Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce both play for the NFL.

Cooper Neill/Getty Images

After the Chiefs beat the Chargers, Jason opened up to NBC Sports about his brother's new relationship and the frenzy it has caused.

"It's certainly been weird, the level that it is now," he told NBC Sports on Sunday night. "On one hand, I'm happy for my brother that he seems to be in a relationship that he's excited about, that he is genuine about. But there's another end of it where it's like, 'Man, this is a lot.'"

"This is another level of stardom that typically football players don't deal with," he added.

October 24, 2023: Kelce's dad praises Swift as "smart" and "genuine."
travis kelce snl
Travis Kelce's family sat in the audience when he hosted "Saturday Night Live."

Will Heath/NBC via Getty Image

In an interview with People, Ed Kelce described Swift as "a very, very sweet, very charming, down-to-earth young woman."

The athlete's father also praised her first impression as "very genuine," presumably referring to the Chiefs game on October 12, when Swift and Ed were seen chatting in the stands.

"I'll tell you something very special that I noticed about Taylor the first time I met her," Ed shared. "We're sitting in the suite, she gets up and in the front room, she gets up to go get a drink or something and she starts picking up empty bottles, cans, plates that are scattered around. Because in the suites everybody gets stuff and you empty it down wherever you can."

"And I'm just thinking, I don't think she got the diva memo. She didn't get the spoiled musician," he continued. "She doesn't know how to pull that off. And that really to me said a whole lot."

November 3, 2023: Kelce responds with a smile when asked if he's "in love" with Swift.
travis kelce
Travis Kelce at a press conference in Frankfurt, Germany.

Arne Dedert/picture alliance via Getty Images

At a press conference in Frankfurt, Germany, where the Kansas City Chiefs would soon play the Miami Dolphins, Kelce fielded a direct question about his feelings for Swift.

According to ESPN's NFL reporter Jeff Darlington, the reporter asked, "What is the latest status, and are you in love?"

"I got to see her last week. That's the latest status right there," Kelce said of their current status, though he added, "I'm going to keep my personal relationship personal."

A video of the exchange shows that Kelce was grinning as he replied.

During a recent episode of his podcast, Kelce also said it was "cool" to see people dress up as him and Swift for Halloween, though his brother thought it was "pretty creepy."

November 10, 2023: Kelce joins Swift in Buenos Aires the day after she kicks off the Latin American leg of the Eras Tour.
taylor swift new york city
Taylor Swift photographed on November 4, 2023 in New York City.

Gotham/GC Images

Swift and Kelce were spotted at a restaurant in the Argentine capital after Swift postponed her second scheduled show in Buenos Aires due to "truly chaotic" weather in the city.

According to People, the couple appeared to be joined by Swift's dad, Scott Swift, as they dined in a private room at Elena restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires.

November 11, 2023: Kelce attends his second Eras Tour concert, where Swift changes the lyrics of "Karma" in his honor.
taylor swift eras tour
Taylor Swift performs in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Marcelo Endelli/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Swift made a small but significant change to "Karma" during her second show in Buenos Aires as Kelce watched from the VIP tent, alongside the pop star's father, Scott Swift.

"Karma is the guy on the Chiefs, coming straight home to me," Swift sang with a giggle, per videos captured by fans at the Estadio River Plate concert.

TikTok user @flormosso caught Kelce's reaction to the moment, when the crowd erupted into cheers. The two-time Super Bowl champ covered a huge grin with his hands while Scott patted him on the shoulder.

Kelce later said he "had a little bit of a clue" that Swift was preparing something special for the show, but once he heard the lyric change, it "still shocked me."

"I was like, 'Oh, she really just said that,'" he said on his podcast.

November 11, 2023: Swift and Kelce share their first public kiss.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce kissing.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce kissing.

X/@ViralContentz

When her second concert in Buenos Aires ended, Swift left the stage and ran into Kelce's arms as he waited for her by an exit.

The couple shared their first public kiss as fans cheered.

November 20, 2023: Kelce praises Swift in an interview.
travis kelce wall street journal magazine
Travis Kelce photographed for WSJ. Magazine.

Gregory Harris for WSJ. Magazine

In a cover story for WSJ. Magazine, the NFL player said he was a Swiftie before he began dating the pop star.

He praised Swift's songwriting, especially her song "Blank Space," and even described his girlfriend as "a genius."

"I've never been a man of words," Kelce said. "Being around her, seeing how smart Taylor is, has been fucking mind-blowing. I'm learning every day."

He also said he's been hesitant to discuss their relationship in public because he doesn't want to spook her.

"That was the biggest thing to me: make sure I don't say anything that would push Taylor away," he said.

"Obviously I've never dated anyone with that kind of aura about them… I've never dealt with it," Kelce added. "But at the same time, I'm not running away from any of it."

December 3, 2023: Swift attends another of Kelce's games in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
taylor swift brittany mahomes nfl game
Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes cheer for the Chiefs in December.

Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Once again, Swift was photographed cheering for Kelce in a private suite with Brittany Mahomes. (Unfortunately, the team lost to the Green Bay Packers 27-19.)

"They're both really hard workers, and he acknowledges her art is hers, and he has what's his," an anonymous source told People. "He understands the territory their relationship comes with and like he said, isn't letting any of the hoopla impact how they're growing together."

December 6, 2023: Swift confirms her relationship status with Kelce and says they're "proud of each other."
taylor swift time magazine person of the year cover
Taylor Swift is Time's 2023 Person of the Year.

Inez and Vinoodh for Time

Swift opened up about Kelce in a cover story for Time magazine, which named her Person of the Year for 2023.

She said she enjoys attending NFL games "to support Travis" and praised him for openly courting her on his podcast.

Although Swift has a complicated history with dating in the public eye — and has kept previous relationships extremely private — she said there's nothing to hide when it comes to Kelce.

"When you say a relationship is public, that means I'm going to see him do what he loves, we're showing up for each other, other people are there and we don't care," Swift told Time. "The opposite of that is you have to go to an extreme amount of effort to make sure no one knows that you're seeing someone. And we're just proud of each other."

January 26, 2024: Kelce says he and Swift are happy to ignore the "outside noise."
taylor swift travis kelce
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce photographed leaving Arrowhead Stadium.

Tammy Ljungblad/Kansas City Star/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

During a Chiefs press conference, Kelce fielded questions about navigating his relationship amid his growing fame.

"As long as we're happy, we can't listen to anything that's outside noise," Kelce said. "That's all that matters."

Kelce added that he'd be "silly" to deny Swift's role in his growing fan base, but his priority is still his job.

"I brought this upon myself, and I do enjoy having fun with it all, and the biggest thing is making sure my focus is right here in this building," Kelce told reporters.

January 28, 2024: Swift celebrates with Kelce when the Chiefs secure their spot in the Super Bowl.
travis kelce taylor swift
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift celebrate the Chiefs' AFC Championship win.

Patrick Smith/Getty Images

For her 12th NFL appearance, Swift watched the Chiefs beat the Baltimore Ravens to secure their spot in Super Bowl LVIII.

After the game, she joined Kelce and his family on the field to celebrate. The couple shared several hugs and kisses in front of the crowd.

February 11, 2024: Swift joins Kelce on the field after he wins the Super Bowl.
taylor swift travis kelce super bowl
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift share a kiss at the Super Bowl.

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

At the 2024 Super Bowl, Kelce and the Chiefs became NFL champions for the second year in a row. Swift had flown from Tokyo to watch the game and could be seen celebrating the historic win in a VIP box, flanked by friends and members of Kelce's family.

Later, she joined Kelce on the field, where the couple shared several intimate hugs and kisses.

April 13, 2024: Swift and Kelce attend Coachella together.
taylor swift travis kelce coachella
Ice Spice, Taylor Swift, and Travis Kelce at Coachella.

Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty Images

Swift and Kelce were spotted in the crowd at Coachella watching pals Ice Spice and Bleachers perform. 

Several videos showing the couple dancing and kissing at the music festival circulated on social media. Swift also wore a "New Heights" hat to support Kelce's podcast.

Kelce later said that he prefers to watch concerts "from the fans' perspective."

"I'm a fan of the music. I'm a fan of live shows," Kelce said on his podcast. "I want to see it from the front of the stage. Yeah, we probably could've finessed it that way [watching backstage], but I think it's just that much more of an experience if you're in the pit, man. If you're in the madness with all the fans. It was awesome though."

April 19, 2024: Swift releases her new album "The Tortured Poets Department," which may include a nod to Kelce.
taylor swift the tortured poets department deluxe album cover

Beth Garrabrant

Swift's 31-track double album "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology" contains two songs that may nod to Kelce.

The first is "The Alchemy," which doubles as a love song and an ode to Swift's enduring career. The lyrics feature several sport-related metaphors like "Call the amateurs and cut 'em from the team" and "Where's the trophy? He just comes running over to me."

According to the liner notes, "The Alchemy" was copyrighted in 2023, so it's unclear how deeply tied to Kelce it can be. (Swift's albums are typically finished several months ahead of their release date, ensuring vinyl factories have enough time to fulfill preorders.)

However, "So High School," which also seemingly references Kelce, was released in the deluxe half of "TTPD," meaning it wasn't included with physical copies of the album. A song can be made available to stream almost immediately after completion, so it's possible the song was written more recently.

"So High School" is perhaps the only straightforward love song on "Poets," depicting a relationship that transports Swift back to her "You Belong With Me" days — the giddy rush of young love and lust.

The track appears to include direct references to Kelce, including "You know how to ball, I know Aristotle," "You knew what you wanted and, boy, you got her," and "Are you gonna marry, kiss, or kill me?"

Back in 2016, Kelce played a game of "Kiss, Marry, Kill" with AfterBuzz TV, in which he chose to kiss Swift.

April 27, 2024: Kelce calls Swift his "significant other" at a charity gala.
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A Kansas City Chiefs fan supports Kelce and Swift at the Super Bowl victory parade.

David Eulitt/Getty Images

Kelce brought Swift as his date to the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation Golf Classic gala in Las Vegas.

In a highlights reel shared by Kelce's teammate, the couple can be seen walking into the event holding hands.

Other clips shared by fans at the event show Kelce and Swift cuddling and kissing at their table. At one point, Kelce made a speech and referred to Swift as his "significant other." For a surprise auction item, they sold four tickets to the Eras Tour for $80,000.

May 12, 2024: Kelce watches Swift perform her 87th show on the Eras Tour.
taylor swift eras tour
Taylor Swift performs in France.

Kevin Mazur/TAS24/Getty Images

When Swift returned to the stage for the European leg, she had adjusted the Eras Tour set list to perform songs from "The Tortured Poets Department." The new segment includes "So High School," possibly as a nod to her current relationship.

Swift's fourth and final performance in France also happened to be the tour's 87th show. Kelce, who wears No. 87 for the Chiefs, was in the audience. Kelce was spotted dancing with Swift's close friend, Gigi Hadid, and filming Swift on his iPhone.

"Can you believe it's our 87th show tonight?" Swift asked the audience during her acoustic set, just before playing "The Alchemy" and "Begin Again" as the evening's surprise songs.

During the concert's "1989" segment, Swift also debuted a new outfit: a glittering yellow top with a red ombré skirt. Fans interpreted this as a nod to Kelce and the Chiefs because the team's colors are yellow and red. (Kelce previously said his favorite song of Swift's is "Blank Space" from "1989").

Finally, to close the evening, Swift tweaked the lyrics of "Karma" to salute "the guy on the Chiefs" for the second time.

June 23, 2024: Kelce makes his debut appearance on the Eras Tour stage.
Taylor Swift is joined onstage by Travis Kelce (R), during "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour" at Wembley Stadium on June 23, 2024 in London, England.
Taylor Swift is joined onstage by Travis Kelce (R), during "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour" at Wembley Stadium on June 23, 2024 in London, England.

Gareth Cattermole/TAS24 via Getty Images

During Swift's third and final performance in London, Kelce made a surprise appearance during her onstage costume change for "The Tortured Poets Department."

This scene depicts Swift getting shot and killed at the end of "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived." Then, she's picked up and revived by a set of dancers dressed as ringmasters. These characters force Swift to strip down, put on heels, and keep performing through the pain — a segue into her meta bop (and "TTPD" album highlight) "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart."

Kelce joined the skit as another ringmaster. He picked up Swift's body from the stage, carried her to the fainting couch, and mimed applying powder to her face with a makeup brush. 

Kelce is now cemented in Swiftian history as the first boyfriend to join Swift onstage during one of her concerts.

September 7, 2024: Swift brings Kelce as her date to a friend's wedding.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce leave a friend's wedding in New York City.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce leave a friend's wedding in New York City.

MEGA/Getty Images

Swift and Kelce were spotted out together in New York City, where they attended the wedding of Karen Elson and Lee Foster, per Vogue.

Elson is a model, while Foster is the owner of Electric Lady Studios, where Swift has recorded many songs over the years — from "Lover" to "The Tortured Poets Department."

Swift wore a cream-colored floral dress for the occasion, paired with a Vivienne Westwood purse, Louboutin sandals, and $64,000 worth of jewelry.

September 8, 2024: The couple attends the US Open together.
Travis Kelce hugging Taylor Swift from behind at the 2024 US Open Tennis Championships.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at the 2024 US Open Tennis Championships.

Gotham/GC Images

During an extended break from the Eras Tour, Swift and Kelce attended the 2024 US Open Tennis Championships, where they were photographed cuddling, kissing, and singing along to "I Believe In a Thing Called Love" by The Darkness. They even wore color-coordinating outfits.

The couple was joined by friends like Brittany Mahomes and the Haim sisters.

September 11, 2024: Swift gives a shout-out to "my boyfriend Travis" at the VMAs.
Taylor Swift accepts the award for video of the year at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards.
Taylor Swift accepts the award for video of the year at the 2024 VMAs.

Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty Images

Swift's "Fortnight" won video of the year at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards. During her acceptance speech, she described her joyful experience filming (and directing) the video.

"Something that I'll always remember is when I finished a take and I'd say 'cut,' and we'd be done with that take, I would always hear someone cheering from across the studio where we were shooting it," she said. "That one person was my boyfriend, Travis."

After an eruption of applause, Swift continued to thank Kelce for his positive attitude.

"Everything this man touches turns to happiness and fun and magic," she said. "So I want to thank him for adding that to our shoot because I'll always remember that."

October 7, 2024: After skipping a few games, Swift makes a stylish return to Arrowhead Stadium.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at the Chiefs game in Kansas City on October 7, 2024.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at the Chiefs game in Kansas City on October 7, 2024.

David Eulitt/Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Despite recent tabloid speculation about their relationship status, Swift showed up to cheer for Kelce when the Chiefs took on the New Orleans Saints.

Swift wore a Vivienne Westwood set and glitter freckles for the occasion in Kansas City, where the Chiefs won their fifth consecutive game and extended their undefeated season.

January 26, 2025: Once again, Swift celebrates on the field when the Chiefs win the AFC championship.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce celebrate the Chiefs becoming 2025 AFC champions.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce celebrate the Chiefs becoming 2025 AFC champions.

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

For the second year in a row, Swift watched the Chiefs become AFC champions at Arrowhead Stadium — her ninth attendance of the season and 22nd total. She joined Kelce and his team for the on-field celebrations.

February 9, 2025: Swift supports Kelce at Super Bowl LIX.
Taylor Swift at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025.
Taylor Swift at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025.

Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Swift traveled to New Orleans to cheer for Kelce at their second Super Bowl as a couple.

Earlier that week, the couple was spotted dining with Patrick and Brittany Mahomes at Lilette, a popular French restaurant in the city. Swift also had dinner with friends at Gianna, an Italian restaurant near the French Quarter, the night before the big game.

Some of those friends accompanied Swift to Caesars Superdome, including the Haim sisters, Ice Spice, and stylist Ashley Avignone, who was previously mentioned in the liner notes of Swift's 2012 album "Red."

Unlike the previous year, the Chiefs lost at the Super Bowl, falling to the Eagles 40-22.

June 12, 2025: The couple attends the 2025 Stanley Cup Final.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift attend Game Four of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final in Florida.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift attend Game Four of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final in Florida.

Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

Swift and Kelce were spotted in a VIP box at Amerant Bank Arena, when the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers faced off in the 2025 Stanley Cup Final.

July 24, 2025: Kelce shares several photos with Swift on Instagram to commemorate their recent "adventures."
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift in a photo shared to Instagram on July 24, 2025.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift in a photo shared to Instagram on July 24, 2025.

@killatrav/Instagram

With training camp freshly underway for the NFL's 2025-26 season, Kelce shared a photo dump on Instagram that offered a peek into his and Swift's downtime since the Super Bowl. "Had some adventures this offseason, kept it 100," Kelce wrote in the caption.

Swift is featured in seven out of the 13 photos. The carousel includes shots of the couple ice skating, drinking wine with friends, and wearing novelty hats that say "Captain" and "First Mate." Swift's brother, Austin Swift, also appears in a few of the photos.

The post marked the first time Kelce shared personal photos of Swift on social media.

August 12, 2025: Swift announces her new album, "The Life of a Showgirl," with Kelce's help.
Taylor Swift wears an orange dress onstage at the Eras Tour.
Taylor Swift wears an orange dress onstage at the Eras Tour.

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Shortly after Swift's social media team began teasing her "new era" on August 11, she was confirmed as a guest on the forthcoming episode of "New Heights."

At 12:12 a.m. ET on August 12, Swift shared a collaborative Instagram post with the "New Heights" account. In the short teaser clip, Swift, seated next to Kelce, revealed the title of her new album, "The Life of a Showgirl."

August 12, 2025: Kelce gushes about being Swift's "plus one."
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce photographed in New York City.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce photographed in New York City.

XNY/Star Max/GC Images

In a cover story for GQ, Kelce opened up about his and Swift's relationship dynamic.

"I get to be the plus one," he said. "I get to go and be that fan. Because I am a fan. I'm a fan of music. I'm a fan of art. And it's so cool that I get to experience her being that plus one for me on the football field… I feel that same enjoyment every time she comes to my shows."

Kelce also discussed the similarities between himself and Swift as entertainers, performing for sold-out stadium crowds.

"I hadn't experienced somebody in the same shoes as me, having a partner who understands the scrutiny, understands the ups and downs of being in front of millions," he said. "That was very relatable, seeing how exhausted she would get after shows. She may not think of herself as an athlete. She will never tell anyone that she is an athlete. But I've seen what she goes through. I've seen the amount of work that she puts on her body, and it's mind-blowing."

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  •  

Molly Shannon backs Kenan Thompson to take over from 'genius' Lorne Michaels as 'SNL' showrunner

Kenan Thompson is the longest-tenured cast member in the NBC show's history. He hinted a some possible cast changes.
Kenan Thompson is the longest-tenured cast member in the NBC show's history.

NBC/Theo Wargo/NBC via Getty Images

  • Molly Shannon says Lorne Michaels is "irreplaceable" as "SNL" showrunner.
  • But there's one current cast member she seems to think could one day take the reins — Kenan Thompson.
  • Thompson is the longest-tenured cast member in the NBC show's history.

Actor Molly Shannon has backed the idea of Kenan Thompson one day taking over from longtime "Saturday Night Live" showrunner Lorne Michaels, despite calling Michaels "irreplaceable."

Asked what she thought about Thompson potentially taking the reins at the NBC show in an interview with People, Shannon, who was a cast member between 1995 and 2001, said it was "an excellent idea."

"I love this idea. He's the greatest — I adore Kenan," she said, adding that he was "so talented."

Thompson joined "SNL" in 2003 and is the longest-tenured cast member in its history, notching his 22nd season this year.

Rumors of Michaels' retirement grew as "SNL" neared its 50th anniversary earlier this year, fueling speculation over who could take over as showrunner.

For Shannon, it seems the show will never be the same, no matter who comes in.

"There's no one who could replace him. It would not be the same show," Shannon told People of Michaels, who created the sketch comedy show in 1975. "He's just a one-of-a-kind genius. Brilliant. Smart."

"It's his show, his vision," she added.

In September 2024, Michaels, 80, addressed speculation over his future, telling The Hollywood Reporter he had no "immediate" plans to retire.

"I just know that this is kind of what I do and as long as I can keep doing it, I'll keep doing it," he said at the time.

The cast of "SNL" gather around Scarlett Johansson during her monologue in the 50th season finale.
The cast of "SNL" with Scarlett Johansson during her monologue in the 50th season finale.

NBC/Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

Earlier this year, Thompson hinted that fans of "SNL" could see a major shakeup when the show returns following the wrap of its 50th season.

"Especially this year where it feels like there's maybe, possibly, a lot of change next year," he told Page Six. "You want everyone to stay forever, knowing that people may be making decisions this summer."

He added that he had yet to sign a new contract for the coming season but expressed interest in returning.

"You just never know what the future holds," he said. "I don't want to be in the way of someone else."

"I don't want to be the stale old man riding the same old thing. That doesn't really happen that much at 'SNL' but there's no guarantees," he added.

Representatives for "SNL" and Thompson did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

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  •  

A complete timeline of Kevin Costner's controversies, from his messy divorce to a 'Horizon' lawsuit

Kevin Costner.
Kevin Costner.

Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Airbnb

  • A stunt performer filed a lawsuit against Kevin Costner and the producers of "Horizon 2."
  • The complaint says the stunt woman was subjected to a "violent unscripted" rape scene directed by Costner.
  • Costner is no stranger to headline-making court cases and controversies. Here's a rundown.

Kevin Costner is back in the headlines.

The 70-year-old actor and director has been named in a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by a stunt performer who said that she was subjected to perform an impromptu rape scene on the set of "Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 2" in 2023.

The stunt woman, who has previously worked on "Barbie" and "Yellowjackets," is suing for an undisclosed amount and has requested a trial by jury.

Costner's lawyer, Marty Singer, denied the claims in a statement to Business Insider. "Our client Kevin Costner always wants to make sure that everyone is comfortable working on his films and takes safety on set very seriously," Singer said, adding that the claim has "absolutely no merit."

Here's a timeline of all the headline-making missteps, scandals, and controversies Costner has faced throughout his career.

Costner's career suffered in 1995 thanks to the critical and box-office disaster that was "Waterworld."
Kevin Costner and Jeanne Tripplehorn in "Waterworld" (1995).
Kevin Costner and Jeanne Tripplehorn in "Waterworld" (1995).

Universal Pictures

Costner starred in, produced, and later took over directing duties for the postapocalyptic action film "Waterworld," which made headlines before its release thanks to its ballooning budget, which made it one of the expensive movies of its day.

Production setbacks, on-set injuries (including one sustained by Costner himself), and a natural disaster that destroyed an important set all inflated the final cost to a then-record $175 million.

When the film landed in theaters, the critical consensus was that it was also one of the worst movies ever made.

Costner, who personally invested $22 million into the film, lost more than just money in the aftermath of the box office flop. His career took a downward turn that continued with the release of his second directorial effort, "The Postman," two years later in 1997. That film collected a handful of Razzies, including Worst Actor and Worst Director.

Costner made an enemy of the Lakota Sioux following the release of "Dances With Wolves."
Kevin Costner directing "Dances With Wolves."
Kevin Costner directing "Dances With Wolves."

Orion Pictures

"Dances With Wolves," Costner's 1990 Oscar-winning directorial debut, was praised for its attempt to portray Native American people and their culture more authentically than previous Western films.

Costner also found himself embraced by the Lakota Sioux nation, whom he enlisted to fill out his cast of Native American characters.

But five years after the film was released, the New York Times reported that the Lakota Sioux had felt "betrayed" by Costner after he put forward a proposal to build a casino, golf course, and resort on National Forest land in Deadwood, South Dakota, an area which they consider sacred.

Costner and his brother and business partner, Dan Costner, offered to swap a 600-acre parcel of land 10 miles away for the land they were seeking, something the tribe resisted.

While the Costners did acquire land in South Dakota to build their resort, it never materialized and the pair put the 1,000 acres of land on sale for $14 million in 2013.

However, it's not completely in the past. Costner is still involved in a decadeslong legal battle with an artist whom he commissioned to create a bronze sculpture for the failed resort.

Stephen Baldwin brought a lawsuit against Costner in 2012 and accused him of cheating him out of millions of dollars.
Kevin Costner defended himself in court against accusations that he cheated Stephen Baldwin out of millions of dollars.
Kevin Costner defended himself in court against accusations that he cheated Stephen Baldwin out of millions of dollars.

Tom Williams/Roll Call via Getty Images

After the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010, Costner was forced to defend himself in court against accusations that he cheated Stephen Baldwin out of millions of dollars.

The federal lawsuit brought against Costner by Baldwin and his business partner, Spyridon C. Contogouris, claimed that Costner hid details of a lucrative deal with BP before they sold their stake in Costner's company that created centrifugal oil-water separators.

Baldwin and Contogouris sought $17 million in damages, stating they could have made at least that much in the deal.

After a two-week trial, the jury sided with Costner and they got nothing.

Costner left "Yellowstone" before it ended following rumors of a behind-the-scenes feud with cocreator Taylor Sheridan.
Kevin Costner and "Yellowstone" showrunner Taylor Sheridan clashed during the show's fifth and final season.
Kevin Costner and "Yellowstone" showrunner Taylor Sheridan clashed during the show's fifth and final season.

Paramount Network, Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Viacom

The behind-the-scenes drama of "Yellowstone" drew just as much attention as its on-screen action toward the end of its five-season run.

After reports began to circulate in early 2023 that Costner had clashed with Taylor Sheridan, the "Yellowstone" showrunner, over shooting schedules, the Paramount Network announced in May 2023 that the series' fifth season would be its last.

Before the final episodes — which promptly killed off Costner's character — began airing in late 2024, things got ugly in the press. It was alleged that Costner offered to spend only a week on set for the final episodes, while Costner claimed that Sheridan dragged his feet with the scripts, leaving him no option but to opt out. The Oscar winner even said at one point that he would "probably go to court" with the show's producers over his final paycheck, but as of 2025, that lawsuit hasn't materialized.

The actor's messy legal separation from his second wife turned into tabloid fodder in 2023.
Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner attend the Premiere Party For Paramount Network's "Yellowstone" Season 2 at Lombardi House on May 30, 2019 in Los Angeles, California
Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner, photographed in 2019.

Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images

Costner and Christine Baumgartner's divorce proceedings played out in the public eye throughout 2023, after Baumgartner filed for divorce, citing "irreconcilable differences" after 18 years of marriage.

The two battled it out in court over child support payments, their home, the terms of their prenup, and even household items like a Peloton and cutlery — and all of their disagreements were dissected by the public.

The interest in their divorce was fueled by jabs made by their respective lawyers in filings: Baumgartner's lawyers cast doubts on whether Costner had been faithful during their marriage. Costner's camp claimed Baumgartner inflated her child support payment request to cover $188,000 worth of plastic surgery.

The two appeared to be headed for a contentious trial until they reached an undisclosed settlement agreement in September 2023.

Costner mortgaged his house to fund his first "Horizon" movie. It became one of the biggest box-office flops of 2024.
Kevin Costner directing next to a monitor
Kevin Costner directing on the set of "Horizon."

Richard Foreman/Warner Bros.

Part of the reason Costner couldn't continue his commitments to "Yellowstone" toward the end of its run was because of production on his own Western film franchise, "Horizon," which was originally conceived as four feature-length films that would be released in the space of a year.

However, following the first film's disappointing box office performance upon its release in June 2024, the scheduled release date of the second film was pushed back from August 2024. It still hasn't been released.

To get "Horizon" made, Costner mortgaged his property in Santa Barbara and invested $38 million of his own money. Costner and his undisclosed financial backers are also covering the first film's marketing, which Variety estimated cost $30 million.

The self-financing route was a huge gamble, and one that it appears Costner is still paying off. As it stands, "Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1" has made $38 million at the global box office, meaning it hasn't yet made a profit.

In May 2025, Costner and his "Horizon 2" producers were sued by a stunt performer who says she was made to perform an impromptu rape scene.
Kevin Costner as Hayes Ellison in "Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1."
Kevin Costner directed, wrote, produced, and starred in "Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1" and "Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2."

Warner Brothers Pictures

In a lawsuit filed in California on Tuesday and viewed by Business Insider, Devyn LaBella accused the actor-director, the production companies behind his "Horizon" film series, and 10 additional unnamed individuals involved in producing "Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 2" of breach of contract and sexual harassment.

In the suit, LaBella, who was the stunt double for actor Ella Hunt, said that she was made to perform in a "violent unscripted" rape scene without the required notice and consent and without a mandatory intimacy coordinator present.

She also said it was an open set, allowing "anyone" to walk in and "observe the scene being performed."

"I was left exposed, unprotected, and deeply betrayed by a system that promised safety and professionalism," LaBella told The Hollywood Reporter, which broke the news Tuesday.

Costner's attorney denied the allegations in a statement provided to Business Insider.

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Photos show the most powerful moments from Pope Francis' funeral proceedings

The coffin of Pope Francis was carried during the funeral Mass on April 26. More than 250,000 people gathered to pay their respects to the late pontiff, Vatican authorities said.
The coffin of Pope Francis was carried during the funeral Mass on April 26. More than 250,000 people gathered to pay their respects to the late pontiff, Vatican authorities said.

Kai Pfaffenbach/Reuters

  • Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, died on April 21 at the age of 88.
  • Trump, Macron, Zelenskyy, and other world leaders attended the funeral Mass on Saturday.
  • Over 250,000 people gathered to pay their respects to the late pontiff, Vatican authorities said.

After 12 years of serving as the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis died on April 21 at the age of 88.

Thousands of people paid their respects as the pontiff's body lay in state inside St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City in the days before his burial in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome.

Saturday's funeral Mass was attended by world leaders, including President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

A new pope will be chosen by the College of Cardinals in a papal election known as the conclave.

Photos show powerful moments from the late pope's funeral proceedings.

After Pope Francis' death was announced on Easter Monday, mourners assembled for an evening rosary prayer in St. Peter's Square.
Mourners for Pope Francis at St. Peter's Square.
A rosary prayer in suffrage of Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square.

Massimo Valicchia/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Visitors left flowers, candles, and photos of the late pope.
Memorials for Pope Francis.
A memorial for Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square.

Christoph Reichwein/picture alliance via Getty Images

The late pope lay in state in an open wooden coffin on Tuesday at Casa Santa Marta, his papal residence.
Cardinals pray at the Chapel of Santa Marta.
Cardinals prayed at the Chapel of Santa Marta.

Simone Risoluti Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images

On Wednesday, his body was transferred to St. Peter's Basilica, one of the holiest sites in the Catholic church, for three days of public viewing.
Pope Francis' body was transferred to the Basilica at St. Peter's Square.
Pope Francis' body was transferred to the Basilica at St. Peter's Square.

Christopher Furlong/Getty Images

His coffin was placed in front of the Altar of the Confession, which sits above what is believed to be the tomb of Saint Peter, one of Jesus' Twelve Apostles.
Pope Francis lay in state at St. Peter's Basilica.
Pope Francis' coffin at St. Peter's Basilica.

Ernesto Ruscio/Getty Images

After leading the procession to the Basilica, the Cardinals conducted a service featuring liturgical readings and hymns.
Cardinals mourn Pope Francis at St. Peter's Basilica.
Cardinals paid their respects to Pope Francis inside St. Peter's Basilica.

ALESSANDRO DI MEO/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Tens of thousands of people waited in line to enter St. Peter's Basilica and pay their respects to Pope Francis.
Pope Francis lies in state inside St. Peter's Basilica.
Pope Francis lay in state inside St. Peter's Basilica.

Picture Alliance via Getty Images

On Saturday, Pope Francis' funeral Mass took place in front of St. Peter's Basilica.
A photograph taken from St Peter Basilica shows the large crowds that gathered for the funeral mass of late Pope Francis.
A photograph taken from St Peter Basilica shows the large crowds that gathered for the funeral Mass of late Pope Francis.

Alberto Pizzoli / AFP via Getty Images

Vatican authorities said more than 250,000 people watched on during the ceremony, which included Gregorian chants and Latin verses.
Crowds of people gathered during the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.
Crowds of people gathered during the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

Ernesto S. Ruscio/Getty Images

Dozens of world leaders attended the Holy event, including Trump. Macron, Zelenskyy, and Biden also attended.
President Trump, who attended with his wife Melania Trump, was among the world leaders in attendance.
President Trump, who attended with his wife Melania Trump, was among the world leaders in attendance.

Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

After the Mass, the coffin carrying the Pope's body was brought to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, his final resting place.
The popemobile delivered the late pope's body to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome for burial.
The popemobile delivered the late pope's body to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome for burial.

Alejandro Martinez Gonzalez /Hans Lucas via AFP/Getty Images

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A billionaire inventor says he's lived a life of 'failure' — and that people should get used to trial and error

James Dyson.
James Dyson.

Christophe Archambault/AFP via Getty Images

  • Inventor James Dyson has talked about the importance of embracing "failure" in work and life.
  • "I've always said mine is a life of failure," the British billionaire told The Wall Street Journal in an interview.
  • He's created thousands of prototypes over his career and also scrapped plans to enter the EV market.

Inventor James Dyson is famous for his namesake vacuums which use his patented cyclone technology. His net worth is $16.8 billion per Bloomberg's Billionaire Index.

But he says that, "mine is a life of failure."

In a video interview with The Wall Street Journal published Saturday. Dyson — who said he created 5,127 prototypes over five years before launching his bagless vacuum cleaner in 1993 — said that embracing failure was essential to life.

"It's true for writers and filmmakers and all sorts of people. It's a life of failure. It takes a long time before you find the one that works," he said. "You just have to get used to that."

Dyson, 77, said he enjoyed the misfires and struggles he's had across his career, saying that real wisdom comes from experience.

"At school, you're taught to get the answer right the first time," he said. While a clever student may get to the answer quickly, he said, they are at a disadvantage to those who take their time getting to an answer, as they haven't "viscerally experienced failure and overcoming failure."

For Dyson, resilience and adaptability are some of the most important skills someone can learn. "Life is about making things work," he said.

He continued: "That's what you have to do. It's trial and error. When something works, it's less challenging, it's less interesting."

Aside from the many prototypes it took him to invent the first vacuum with his namesake brand, Dyson famously abandoned plans to enter the electric car market in 2019 after spending more than $600 million on developing a vehicle that he came to realize was not commercially viable.

"The route to success is never linear. This is not the first project which has changed direction and it will not be the last," he wrote in a letter announcing the decision.

He said of his scrapped EV vehicle, "I could see that it was just too risky."

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