Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding at Madison Square Garden on July 4 weekend proves they are completely out of touch, according to columnist Adam Miller. The couple, who built fanbases on relatability and lamenting media intrusion, staged their ceremony in one of the busiest cities in the world during its busiest weekend, a choice Miller calls 'vulgar' and 'tacky.'
Wedding spectacle and criticism
Swift and Kelce's wedding was always bound to be the most talked-about celebrity event of the year, but Miller argues the location reeks of self-importance. With over 1,000 guests invited, the event blocked roads and forced NYPD to work overtime in record-breaking heat, inconveniencing millions of New Yorkers. Miller contrasts this with Dua Lipa's £1.5 million bash in Palermo, which at least showed taste, and Tom Holland and Zendaya's secret wedding, which maintained privacy.
Philanthropy and wealth
Swift, worth over $2.1 billion according to Forbes, and Kelce donated $26 million to 20 causes days before the wedding. Miller criticizes the publicity around the donation, saying 'what good is philanthropy if everyone isn't watching?' He contrasts this with George Michael, who donated millions anonymously. Miller argues that at their wealth level, philanthropy should be mandatory, not extraordinary.
The columnist questions the timing of the donation, suggesting it was intended to soften criticism. He also wonders how the couple will compensate local businesses suffering from road closures. 'This wedding isn't about romance; it's about projecting power, influence and extraordinary wealth,' Miller writes.
Out of touch with fans
Miller notes Swift's loyal fans defend her, saying Madison Square Garden was the most feasible option for her fame. But he counters that they could have married anywhere, even any stadium, without inconveniencing millions. He recalls Swift inviting a visibly surprised Graham Norton to her wedding during his chat show, suggesting her definition of friendship is broad.
Swift joined the billionaire club after the Eras Tour, doubling her fortune to $2.1 billion in two years. Miller concludes that the couple could have maintained secrecy, dignity, and romance but chose not to, showing they are out of touch with ordinary people.
