It's a love story and, baby, she said yes:ÌýÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýÌýare engaged, they announced Tuesday.
In a five-photo joint post on Instagram, the superstar singer and football player revealed their engagement, the fairytale culmination of a courtship that for two years has thrilled and fascinated millions around the world, but especially Swifties, the pop star’sÌý
“Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married,†the caption read, accompanied by an emoji of a dynamite stick.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce kisses Taylor Swift after the NFL Super Bowl 58 football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Feb. 11, 2024, in Las Vegas. The Chiefs won 25-22. (AP Photo/John Locher)
Kelce was a famous football player when they met — a star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs and a Super Bowl champion — but Swift’s unique level of fame catapulted him into a different orbit entirely.
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Their relationship was documented in countless shots of Swift celebrating at Chiefs games and fan videos of Kelce dancing along at Swift’s Eras concert tour as it traveled the globe.
There were those who speculated, with no evidence, that the relationship was not genuine but a cynical ploy for more fame, while some even theorized it was a plot toÌýÌý
In the end, those voices were quieted by a happy couple who simply looked in love — now with an engagement ring rivaling the size of Kelce's three Super Bowl rings.
It’s unclear when and where the two got engaged. Representatives for Swift and Kelce did not immediately respond to The Associated Press' request for comment.
Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce watch play between Jannik Sinner, of Italy, and Taylor Fritz, of the United States, during the men's singles final of the U.S. Open tennis championships, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Throwing fans into frenzies since 2023
It's been just two weeks since Swift — and Kelce — last ignited a media frenzy, with the announcement of a new album,ÌýÌý(It comes out Oct. 3.) Kelce and his brother, former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, assisted Swift with the rollout, hosting her on their typically football-oriented podcast, “New Heights.†During the episode, she likened her career to her now-fiance's, saying their jobs were “to entertain people for three hours in NFL stadiums.â€
When Jason Kelce asked his brother and Swift, sitting side-by-side, how they handled the discourse around their relationship, Swift said they just didn't.
“We don’t, really. I don’t see a lot of things,†she said. “My name can be in the actual headline, and it’s none of my business.â€
The pair started dating during Swift's landmark Eras tour — though Kelce was thwarted in his first attempt to meet Swift at her concert at Arrowhead Stadium.
By September,ÌýÌýcheering on Kelce next to his mother. Less than two months later, she was changing lyrics onstage: “Karma is the guy on the Chiefs, coming straight home to me,†she sang in Argentina as Kelce beamed from the audience.
Donna Kelce stands with her son, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, and Taylor Swift after the AFC Championship NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Congratulations pour in
The news broke in the middle of the Kansas City Chiefs' media availability, though after head coach Andy Reid departed. That left Chiefs defensive end Mike Danna to field questions about his teammate's engagement.
“Man, it’s incredible. I was caught off guard but you know, great for them,†Danna said, a few minutes after the news raced across social media. “But you know, great for them. That’s a blessing. Any time you find that type of joy, blessing, love — that’s a beautiful thing.â€
Like many of the Chiefs, Danna has hung out with Swift and Kelce at a New Year’s party and after most of their home games.
“I’ll think of a good little engagement gift,†Danna said. “Maybe some Pop-Tarts back to her. It won’t be homemade.â€
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift hug after an AFC Championship NFL football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, in Baltimore. The Kansas City Chiefs won 17-10. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
The NFL, whichÌýÌýsince the relationship became public, posted the news on X with their congratulations — then quickly deleted it and reposted it when they realized they tagged the wrong Swift account.
“Two of the most genuine people meet & fall in love. Just so happy for these two,†Brittany MaÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥, the wife of Chiefs quarterback Patrick MaÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥, said on Instagram. Brittany MaÃÛÁÄÖ±²¥ and Swift frequently shared a suite for games at Arrowhead Stadium. Meanwhile the Cleveland Guardians, the baseball teamÌýÌýjoked online: “Thanks a lot, Taylor Swift. Now no one cares that next year’s schedule is out.â€
Kelce and Swift’s relationship featured prominently in the just-released six-part ESPN documentary “The Kingdom,†which chronicles the franchise’s ultimately foiled pursuit of an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl title last season. Kelce was joined by his parents, Donna and Ed Kelce, on the red carpet last Sunday for the premiere at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri.
“She’s very good for him. I don’t hesitate in saying that,†Ed Kelce said of his future daughter-in-law. “They are two people that truly deserve each other.â€
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AP Music Writer Maria Sherman and journalist Mallika Sen contributed from New York. Noveck reported from New York and Skretta from Kansas City, Missouri.
Relive the Eras tour on an RV road trip through Taylor Swift's America
Relive the Eras tour on an RV road trip through Taylor Swift's America
"It's a love story, baby, just say, 'yes'." - Taylor Swift, "Love Story" (Taylor's Version)
For Taylor Swift fans, the music isn't just entertainment—it's a roadmap to the places and experiences that have shaped one of the world's biggest stars. If you couldn't score tickets to the Eras Tour or are simply craving more Swift-inspired adventure, crafted the ultimate Swiftie RV road trip. This unforgettable journey takes you through the heartland of Taylor's songs, from her childhood home to the city that never sleeps.
As Taylor sings in "Lover," "this is our place, we make the rules." So pack your guitar and lyrics journal, because this trip is all about seeing the world through her eyes. Get ready to explore the spots that sparked Taylor's creativity and feel the romance, heartbreak, and coming-of-age magic captured in her songs.
Stop 1: Welcome to New York
"Walking through a crowd, the village is aglow." - Taylor Swift, "Welcome to New York" (1989)
Start spreading the news—the first stop is NYC. While Manhattan isn't exactly RV-friendly, you can park at nearby Liberty Harbor RV Park in Jersey City and catch amazing views of Lady Liberty herself. Then, hop on the subway and head straight to the West Village. Wander down the leafy streets and feel the city love story of "Cornelia Street" come alive—bonus points if you snag a great find at Hamlet's Vintage shop. Grab a latte at Swift-frequented Mud Coffee and imagine scribbling lyrics on napkins.
Where to Stay: Liberty Harbor RV Park (great NYC skyline views)
Playlist Musts: "Welcome to New York," "Cornelia Street," "False God"
Stop 2: Reading, Pennsylvania
"In my heart is a Christmas tree farm, where the people would come to dance under sparkling lights" - Taylor Swift, "Christmas Tree Farm"
Next, travel back to Taylor's roots in Reading, PA. Little Taylor spent her earliest years on an idyllic Christmas tree farm here, which inspired delightfully nostalgic hits like "Christmas Tree Farm". While the Swifts' actual farm is private, you can still explore the same cozy Berks County countryside that shaped her love for the season.
Drive through nearby Wyomissing, where Taylor first picked up a guitar and began crafting her musical storytelling. Stretch your legs with a walk down the quaint main street. Chat up the locals and you might hear stories about her early performances at fairs and coffee shops. Rainy day? Cozy up on the nearby Colebrookdale Railroad to enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Book the Parlor car for the best seats and some delicious light bites.
Where to Stay: French Creek State Park (scenery straight out of a Swift song, full RV hookups)
Playlist Musts: "Seven," "Christmas Tree Farm," "Never Grow Up," "It's Nice to Have a Friend"
Stop 3: The 615
"New to town with a made-up name, in the angel's city, chasing fortune and fame" - Taylor Swift, "The Lucky One" (Red)
Welcome to Nashville—the heart of Swift Country. In Taylor's late teens, her family moved to nearby Hendersonville so she could chase her musical dreams. Those early days come alive in the yearning, striving hits on her first few albums.
In Nashville proper, make a songwriter's pilgrimage to the iconic Bluebird Cafe, where Taylor was first discovered at their legendary open mic nights. Keep the creative juices flowing with a trip to Grimey's, her favorite indie record store. Then, explore the memorabilia exhibits at the Country Music Hall of Fame to witness her evolution from country darling to global pop phenomenon.
Where to Stay: Nashville KOA (close to downtown, shuttle service available)
Playlist Musts: "Tim McGraw," "Our Song," "The Lucky One," "Fifteen," "Teardrops on My Guitar"
Plan Your Own "Love Story"
As a true Swiftie, you know all too well that fall is Taylor's favorite season. Follow in her footsteps by taking this trip in September or October to catch the "Autumn leaves falling down like pieces into place". The temperatures will be perfect for cozying up in boots, a Swift-inspired classic cardigan, and an oversized scarf while sipping pumpkin spice lattes between stops.
Some other trip planning tips:
- Driving time from Reading to Nashville is about 12 hours. Plan to split this into two six-hour driving days with an overnight stop in between.
- Book your RV parks as early as possible (at least a few months out) since fall is a popular camping season.
- Pack your best concert-going outfits to channel your inner popstar at The Bluebird Cafe or The Sutler Saloon for an open mic night.
- Remember that some spots on the trip, like the Swift's farm, are private property. Respect the privacy of any current owners and stick to public areas.
Are you ready for it? This Swiftie RV trip is your chance to experience all the enchanting settings and stories behind the music you adore. There's no telling what kind of sparks will fly when you have an open road and a Taylor soundtrack. Now, what are you waiting for? As Taylor might say, "Dear reader, get out your map. Pick somewhere and just run."
was produced by and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
