Taylor Swift Explains Why She Won’t Perform at Super Bowl Halftime

Pop sensation Taylor Swift has clarified her reasons for declining to perform during the halftime show at the Super Bowl, emphasizing that her decision is unrelated to her fiancé, Travis Kelce, who plays for the Kansas City Chiefs. During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Swift addressed rampant internet speculation and confirmed that she was not deterred by concerns over retaining performance footage.

When asked by Fallon if there was any truth to the rumors that she turned down an offer due to restrictions from the NFL, the 35-year-old singer responded unequivocally, stating, “Jay-Z has always been fair to me.” She explained that their teams are closely connected, often communicating to gauge her feelings regarding the Super Bowl.

Jay-Z, a key figure in the selection of halftime performers since his company, Roc Nation, partnered with the NFL, has maintained an open dialogue with Swift. She elaborated, “It’s not an official offer or a conference room conversation. Our teams are close, so they just ask, ‘How does she feel about the Super Bowl?’”

The singer further shared her personal connection to the event, saying, “I am in love with a guy who plays that sport, on that same field. It’s like violent chess, gladiators without swords; it’s dangerous.” She emphasized her commitment to supporting Kelce during the football season, noting, “He is out there every Sunday, risking his life in this incredibly demanding and stressful sport, while I’m thinking, ‘Hmm, what choreography could I create?’”

Swift made it clear that her decision has nothing to do with Kelce’s preferences, adding, “He would love for me to perform. I’m just too focused.” Since the couple began dating in 2023, following Swift’s Grammy win and the success of her hit “Cruel Summer,” fans have eagerly anticipated a potential Super Bowl halftime appearance.

Speculation intensified after Swift made a surprise appearance on Kelce’s podcast, “New Heights,” in August, leading many to believe she might hint at a future performance. Nevertheless, it was recently announced that Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny will headline the halftime show for the 2026 Super Bowl.

As fans continue to discuss Swift’s comments, her commitment to her personal life and support for her fiancé remains at the forefront of her decisions during this exciting time in her career.