Taylor Swift surprised fans by skipping two major events: the Kansas City Chiefs’ NFL season opener in São Paulo, Brazil, on September 5, 2025, and the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards on September 7. Her absence has sparked questions about her focus as she prepares for her new album, The Life of a Showgirl, set for release on October 3, 2025.
Swift is well-known for supporting Kelce at Chiefs games. However, she missed the Week 1 game against the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil. Reports say the long travel, tight schedules, and security concerns were major reasons behind her absence. Unlike her frequent appearances at Arrowhead Stadium, international games pose extra challenges, making her absence less surprising to insiders. The Chiefs lost 27-21, but Kelce handled the spotlight professionally, even with attention on Swift’s no-show.
She also chose not to attend the 2025 MTV VMAs, despite nominations for Artist of the Year. This marked her first VMA absence since 2021, breaking from her dominant 2024 presence when she won seven awards. Lady Gaga, who performed that night, won Artist of the Year this year. Many believe Swift’s focus on her upcoming album played a key role in her decision.
Pop singer Ariana Grande claimed the top prize at the MTV Video Music Awards, and Lady Gaga and Sabrina Carpenter scored major honors, at a star-studded celebration of fan favorites in New York https://t.co/1BWzJHKMrF
— Reuters (@Reuters) September 8, 2025Industry sources say Swift is prioritising finishing her 12th studio album after ending the record-breaking Eras Tour in December 2024. On Kelce’s podcast, New Heights, she shared her enjoyment of hobbies like baking and painting, hinting that she is seeking a better personal balance. This may explain her reduced public appearances.
Swift’s choice to miss these events reflects a careful effort to balance her big career with personal life. As Kelce’s NFL season begins and her album rollout nears, Swift seems to be managing both roles thoughtfully. Fans, used to her frequent performances, now watch closely for her next moves. She still connects with fans through acts like surprise charity visits, keeping a presence even when away from the spotlight.
Read: MTV VMAs 2025: Winners Full List and Highlights
Kelce handled the Chiefs’ international opener with his usual professionalism. Though the team lost, attention on Swift’s absence increased interest in the couple. Their engagement announcement in August 2025 has also sparked widespread public interest.
