In the aftermath of the 2024 Grammy Awards, Taylor Swift’s team reportedly entered panic mode following an apparent snub directed towards Céline Dion during the ceremony.
The incident, discussed on Monday’s episode of Spotify’s The Town with Matthew Belloni podcast, ignited a flurry of reactions online.
Swift clinched two coveted trophies at the Grammys, securing victories in the categories of Best Pop Vocal Album and Album of the Year for her 2022 release, “Midnights.” However, it was her onstage interaction with Céline Dion that garnered significant attention.
Viewers noticed Swift’s perceived failure to acknowledge Dion while accepting the Album of the Year award, which the iconic singer presented.
Dion’s appearance marked a rare public outing since her health complications due to a rare autoimmune disease made headlines in 2022. The apparent snub stirred criticism online, with some branding it as “disrespectful” and “cringey.”
According to insights shared on the podcast by Bloomberg reporter Lucas Shaw, Swift’s team swiftly recognized the misstep and initiated damage control measures backstage.
Belloni revealed that efforts were made to procure a photo of Swift alongside Dion, which was promptly released to mitigate the fallout from the incident.
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Traditionally, recipients are advised by PR teams to acknowledge the presenter of their award onstage. Belloni highlighted Swift’s departure from this protocol, noting that the singer typically adheres to such etiquette.
The podcast also delved into Swift’s announcement of her upcoming album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” during her acceptance speech for Best Pop Vocal Album.
Shaw expressed reservations about Swift’s decision to use the platform for self-promotion, labeling her a “master capitalist.” Despite critiques of her speech, Shaw acknowledged Swift’s prolific output, citing her forthcoming album as her ninth studio LP, slated for release on April 19.
Meanwhile, Dion revealed plans for a new documentary titled “I Am: Céline Dion,” directed by Oscar-nominee Irene Taylor.
