Taylor Swift will not appear or perform at this year’s Grammy Awards, according to executive producer Ben Winston, who has moved to shut down what he described as a completely fabricated rumour.
Mr Winston dismissed widespread speculation that the singer would take the stage at the ceremony, saying the claims stemmed from a false report published by music industry outlet HITS.
The producer addressed the matter directly in an interview with the same publication, making clear that the information had no factual basis whatsoever.
He also expressed frustration at being questioned about Ms Swift’s potential involvement, pointing out that the speculation originated entirely from fabricated claims rather than any official announcement or confirmed plans.
Taylor Swift will not appear at this year’s Grammy Awards
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Ms Swift’s name will be notably absent from the nominations list at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, which airs on CBS in the USA.
Mr Winston did not mince words about how the false narrative took hold. “The only reason people think Taylor might be performing or coming is because HITS decided to print it this week and put it in their HITS List, and it was picked up globally,” he stated.
The executive producer went further, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. “But HITS just totally made that up. And now I am getting asked about it by you, as if it’s a real thing, when it was made up in your office!”
Mr Winston concluded by noting the irony of being interviewed about a story that the publication itself had invented. “That really is a full-circle rumour!” he added.
Taylor Swift has won a total of 14 Grammy Awards
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The 36-year-old singer’s absence from the nominations stems from straightforward eligibility rules rather than any oversight by the Recording Academy.
Her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, dropped on October 3, 2025, placing it just over a month beyond the qualifying window for this year’s awards.
The 68th Annual Grammy Awards only considered music released between August 31, 2024, and August 30, 2025, meaning Ms Swift’s latest work will have to wait until the 2027 ceremony for consideration.
At last year’s Grammys, Ms Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department secured six nominations, though she departed without any trophies.
Grammy Awards executive producer Ben Winston hit back at claims that Ms Swift will be at the awards this year
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The Cruel Summer singer remains a 14-time Grammy winner, having claimed her first award as best new artist back in 2008.
Beyond the Grammys, Ms Swift has been occupied with preparations for her upcoming wedding to NFL star Travis Kelce.
Page Six previously reported that the couple is planning to host their ceremony with family and friends in Rhode Island this summer.
The publication later revealed the pair had also considered Tennessee as a potential venue, suggesting plans may have evolved.
According to reports, guests have already been asked to sign non-disclosure agreements ahead of the nuptials.
Ms Swift herself addressed wedding planning during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show whilst promoting The Life of a Showgirl, indicating she favours a larger celebration.
She explained: “I know it’s going to be fun to plan because I think the only stressful wedding is when you have a small amount [of space for guests].”
While Ms Swift will not feature at this year’s ceremony, the Recording Academy has confirmed several performers for the evening.
Sabrina Carpenter is nominated for six awards this year
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GETTYSabrina Carpenter, who is nominated for six awards, including Album of the Year for Man’s Best Friend, was the first artist announced for the stage. Additional confirmed performers include Olivia Dean, SOMBR, Leon Thomas and the Marías.
Comedian Trevor Noah returns as host, with Doechii and Harry Styles set to present awards during the broadcast.
Mr Winston revealed the production team’s strategy for building anticipation ahead of the show, comparing their approach to “a Christmas advent calendar” by announcing new performers each day.
“We think it will build excitement,” he explained, noting that Ms Carpenter’s performance at last year’s ceremony marked a turning point following the sombre opening addressing the Los Angeles wildfires.
