Taylor Swift‘s absence from the 2025 American Music Awards red carpet has sent shockwaves through her fanbase and the entertainment world alike.
Despite being nominated for six major awards—including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for The Tortured Poets Department—the 35-year-old superstar was a no-show at the star-studded event at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
Swift’s loyal fans had high hopes for a surprise appearance or even a bombshell announcement of Reputation (Taylor’s Version). But as cameras panned across the empty step-and-repeat and the night wore on without her, Swifties took to social media in collective disbelief.
“WHERES TAYLOR SWIFT????” one fan posted with a crying emoji, echoing the confusion flooding X (formerly Twitter).
Another user shared a meme of Regina George screaming from Mean Girls, captioned: “Me realizing Taylor Swift isn’t even showing up to the #AMAs.” One of the more viral posts included a photo of someone dressed in a snake costume with the caption: “TAYLOR SWIFT HAS ARRIVED AT THE 2025 AMAS RED CARPET.”
Although Swift has made a habit in recent years of skipping red carpets while still accepting awards via pre-recorded videos, many fans were holding out hope she’d turn up in some way. So far, no virtual appearance has materialized.
Adding fuel to the frenzy was the wild speculation that Swift would use the AMAs stage to announce her next re-recorded album. That expectation fell flat, but the rumor mill only intensified online, with some fans joking that the star was watching the chaos unfold from the comfort of her bed.
Despite her absence, Swift remains the most decorated artist in AMA history, currently holding 40 wins. If she sweeps tonight’s categories, she’ll extend her record even further.
The 2025 AMAs, hosted by Jennifer Lopez—who made waves herself with a headline-grabbing same-sex kiss during her onstage number—were full of unexpected moments. While J.Lo’s bold performance divided viewers, Swift’s quiet snub dominated online chatter.
Also lighting up the stage were performances from Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani, Gloria Estefan, and country powerhouse Lainey Wilson. Iconic figures Janet Jackson and Rod Stewart were honored with the Icon and Lifetime Achievement Awards respectively, cementing the show’s blend of nostalgia and contemporary glam.
Presenters included an eclectic mix of Hollywood and music names, from Tiffany Haddish and Wayne Brady to Cara Delevingne and Ciara. Streaming sensation Kai Cenat even made a surprise appearance, giving the broadcast a modern edge.
For the first time in its 51-year history, the American Music Awards aired live on CBS, having moved from its longtime home on ABC. The shift didn’t stop the show from delivering buzz-worthy moments—but many agree it was Taylor Swift’s absence that stole the spotlight.
As the internet continues to spiral with memes, jokes, and conspiracy theories, one thing’s for sure: when Swift skips the red carpet, she still ends up being the center of attention.
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