Pop superstar Taylor Swift surprised fans and media alike by skipping the red carpet at the 51st Annual American Music Awards (AMAs) held on Monday evening at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
The 35-year-old singer, who led the 2025 AMAs with six major nominations, was noticeably absent from the pre-show red carpet segment, prompting a wave of reactions across social media platforms.
Fans gathered outside the venue and tuned in online in hopes of catching a glimpse of Swift, who was nominated for Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Favorite Female Pop Artist, among others, for her record-breaking 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department. However, as the red carpet unfolded without her appearance, disappointment quickly turned into a trending online conversation.
“Taylor Swift has arrived at #AMAs,” one user quipped on X (formerly Twitter), posting an image of the empty red carpet. Another fan shared a popular Mean Girls meme with the caption: “Me realising Taylor Swift isn't even showing up to the #AMAs.”
Despite her absence, Swift remained a central figure throughout the evening. With 40 AMA wins already to her name, she had the opportunity to extend her record at this year’s ceremony.
Hosted by Jennifer Lopez, the event featured performances by Benson Boone, Gwen Stefani, Lainey Wilson, Blake Shelton, and Gloria Estefan. High-profile celebrities including Ciara, Cara Delevingne, Wayne Brady, and streamer Kai Cenat took on presenting duties.
The night also paid tribute to music legends, with Janet Jackson receiving the Icon Award and Sir Rod Stewart honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
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