Why Taylor Swift Skipped the 2025 AMAs
Despite being one of the most prominent figures in the music industry, Taylor Swift was notably absent from the 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), leaving fans puzzled.
Many Swifties had speculated that Taylor would make a surprise appearance or even drop a major announcement—possibly a new album—during the May 26 event.
Their excitement was fueled by the recent penultimate episode of The Handmaid’s Tale, which featured her re-recorded hit “Look What You Made Me Do (Taylor’s Version).” Known for embedding cryptic clues ahead of major releases, fans were confident she’d show up.
Taylor had plenty of reasons to attend—she was nominated in six categories, including Artist of the Year, Favorite Female Pop Artist, Favorite Touring Artist, Album of the Year, Favorite Pop Album (The Tortured Poets Department), and Collaboration of the Year for “Fortnight” with Post Malone.
Despite the buzz, she neither appeared at the show nor gave any public explanation for skipping it.
Interestingly, just two days prior, on May 24, Taylor was spotted enjoying a quiet dinner date in Palm Beach, Florida, with her boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce. The couple, who have been dating since mid-2023, seem to be keeping a low profile.
It’s unclear whether Taylor is working on new music or simply taking a break after a whirlwind few years.
Between releasing multiple albums and deluxe versions, and performing globally on her record-breaking Eras Tour from March 2023 to December 2024, the singer may be enjoying some well-earned downtime.
Adding to the AMAs speculation was a viral theory that Taylor secretly appeared in The Handmaid’s Tale. In the season six episode where her song plays, fans pointed out a background character who resembled her.
But Elisabeth Moss, who stars in and produces the show, quickly debunked the rumor in an interview with TVLine on May 23: “Of course it’s not her,” Moss said. “That’s hilarious.
I love that idea, though.” She acknowledged the excitement surrounding the fan theories, especially with the overlap between Handmaid’s fans and Swifties, calling the moment “so fun.”
For now, Taylor’s absence remains a mystery—but as always, fans will be watching closely for her next move.
Why Taylor Swift Skipped the 2025 AMAs