Taylor Swift likes to keep her mind engaged in different ways when she steps away from songwriting and stadium tours. The global pop star has shared that true-crime television plays a key role in helping her relax after intense creative work.
The 36-year-old singer recently revealed what she turns to once she finally switches on the television after long hours in the studio or on stage. While promoting her latest projects, Swift spoke openly about how she unwinds when her schedule slows down.
In the docuseries End of an Era, Swift detailed the demanding routine she maintained during the Eras Tour. Although her days no longer involve constant travel or three-and-a-half-hour performances, she still values quiet moments to decompress.
Rather than music or light entertainment, Swift prefers crime investigations. She regularly watches Dateline, which she says allows her to shut off her own creative thought process temporarily.
Swift discussed her love for the show during an appearance on Stephen Colbert’s late-night programme. She explained that because her profession requires constant idea generation, switching off mentally feels refreshing.
Taylor Swift's Favorite Show Is Still 'Dateline': 'I Can Turn Off the Ideas for a Second' https://t.co/JNdrJyb9wR
— People (@people) December 20, 2025She told Colbert that watching Dateline gives her a rare break from creativity, allowing her to relax without needing to think ahead or plan.
The 14-time Grammy winner’s interest in the show runs deep. She later revealed that her fascination with crime stories influenced her songwriting. Swift said Dateline helped inspire “Florida!!!,” a track from her album The Tortured Poets Department.
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Swift explained that many crime cases on the show involve people fleeing to Florida to reinvent themselves and disappear into new identities. That recurring theme, she said, sparked ideas that eventually found their way into her music.
For Swift, true-crime television offers both an escape and an unexpected source of creative fuel, proving that even downtime can shape her artistry.
