Taylor Swift made a rare late-night television appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Wednesday, December 10, where she became emotional while discussing her relationship with fiancé Travis Kelce, calling him “the love of my life” and reflecting on a transformative year that included their engagement and reclaiming ownership of her music masters.
The 35-year-old superstar, promoting her upcoming Disney+ projects The End of an Era docuseries and The Eras Tour final concert film, sat down for an extended conversation with Colbert, marking her first in-person interview on the show. Dressed in a striking velvet minidress, Swift engaged in lighthearted banter before delving into more personal topics, including her romance with the Kansas City Chiefs tight end.
When Colbert congratulated her on what he described as an exceptional 2025 – highlighted by her engagement and securing her masters – Swift grew visibly moved. “Getting engaged to the love of my life, getting all my music back,” she said, pausing as her voice wavered. “Those were two things that just never could have happened.” The audience responded with warm applause, and Swift expressed deep gratitude for the milestones.
Swift and Kelce, 36, announced their engagement in August via a joint Instagram post featuring romantic photos and a close-up of her custom cushion-cut diamond ring. The couple, who began dating in 2023 after Kelce publicly expressed interest during one of her Eras Tour stops, have since become one of entertainment’s most followed pairs. Reports indicate they plan a wedding in June 2026 in Rhode Island.
During the interview, Colbert asked about handling intense fame and criticism, including calls from some for her to step back from the spotlight. Swift responded firmly yet graciously: “I don’t want to.” She emphasized her admiration for career longevity and named three key confidants she turns to for advice: Fleetwood Mac icon Stevie Nicks, producer Max Martin, and Kelce. “I can talk to him about any of this,” she shared, highlighting how their partnership provides grounding amid her high-profile life.
The segment also touched on lighter notes. Colbert playfully compared Swift’s entrance to the Beatles’ iconic 1964 Ed Sullivan Show appearance on the same stage, prompting her to deflect with humor: “I feel like they had a whole thing going.” They revisited her 2008 song “Hey Stephen,” with Swift jokingly clarifying it was inspired by author Stephen King, not the host.
Swift revealed personal favorites from her catalog, naming the 10-minute version of “All Too Well” as her current top choice, though she noted rankings evolve over time. She also teased insights from her Disney+ releases, describing the docuseries as an intimate look at the Eras Tour’s emotional and logistical architecture.
The appearance comes amid a busy period for Swift. Her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, released in October, has dominated charts, with tracks like “Opalite” drawing speculation about inspirations from her relationship. Kelce has publicly praised the album, calling certain songs his favorites.
Fans reacted enthusiastically online, with clips of Swift’s emotional moments quickly going viral. Many praised her vulnerability, noting how rarely she discusses personal life in depth. The interview underscored the couple’s supportive dynamic, with Swift crediting Kelce for helping navigate fame’s challenges.
Kelce, meanwhile, continues his NFL season with the Chiefs, balancing professional demands with their relationship. Sources describe the pair as deeply committed, often prioritizing private time despite public scrutiny.
Swift’s late-night spot follows other promotional appearances, including stops on The Tonight Show and The Graham Norton Show. Her Disney+ projects premiere this week, offering fans extended access to the Eras Tour era that redefined live music spectacles.
The conversation highlighted Swift’s evolution from teen country sensation to global powerhouse, owning her narrative both creatively and personally. Reclaiming her masters earlier this year marked a hard-fought victory after years of public disputes, aligning with her engagement as symbols of empowerment and joy.
Colbert, known for insightful celebrity chats, wrapped the segment warmly, joking about future collaborations. Swift reciprocated appreciation for his longtime support.
As 2025 draws to a close, Swift’s reflections paint a picture of fulfillment. From record-breaking tours to personal happiness, her journey continues captivating audiences worldwide.
The full episode showcased why Swift remains a cultural force: blending artistry, resilience, and relatability. For supporters, moments like calling Kelce “the love of my life” affirm a happily-ever-after in progress.
With wedding plans underway and new music resonating, Swift enters the next chapter grounded in love and creative control – outcomes she once viewed as uncertain but now celebrates wholeheartedly.
