Taylor Swift had to cancel her Eras Tour shows in Vienna earlier this year because of a suspected terror threat targeting her fans, known as ‘Swifties.’ Authorities identified potential dangers to concertgoers, prompting Swift and her team to make the tough decision. Despite this, Swift continued her tour, returning to London for a second set of concerts. Experts indicated that security was significantly heightened for her London performances in light of recent threats in Europe. Swift’s tour contributed nearly $1.3 billion to the UK economy.
Reports from The Times of London stated that Taylor received increased security upon her return to the UK, allegedly pressured by government officials. Key figures, including Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, reportedly urged the Metropolitan Police to provide a police escort for Swift. This level of protection is usually reserved for senior government officials and royal family members.
The request for a police escort for Taylor stirred controversy, with comparisons drawn to Prince Harry’s ongoing battle for similar protection after leaving the UK with Meghan Markle. Attorney-general Lord Harmer KC allegedly pushed the police to ensure Swift received necessary security. Rumours suggested that politicians, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Mayor Khan, and Lisa Nandy, were offered free tickets to Taylor’s concerts in return for supporting the additional security measures.
Taylor Swift’s upcoming shows in Vienna have been cancelled due to threat posed by suspected ISIS-connected plot to attack the stadium. pic.twitter.com/K8PVdGIiST
— Pop Base (@PopBase) August 7, 2024
A source close to Home Secretary Cooper told The Sun, “We can confirm that all operational decisions were made by the Metropolitan Police, and they do not discuss security arrangements.” Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy added, “Neither the prime minister, the home secretary, nor the mayor of London has the authority to override the police on this matter.”
The Metropolitan Police stated that their security decisions were based on a thorough assessment of risks, noting, “Our decision-making is based on a thorough assessment of threat, risk, and harm.”
Upon completing the European leg of her tour, Taylor took to Instagram, saying, “I decided that all of my energy had to go toward helping to protect the nearly half a million people I had coming to see the shows in London.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- CNN reports on the arrest of an 18-year-old Iraqi in Vienna, foiling an ISIS-inspired terror plot targeting Taylor Swift’s concert, emphasizing swift authorities and fan devastation.(read more)
- CBS News reports Taylor Swift’s Vienna shows canceled due to foiled terrorist plot, emphasizing safety, authorities’ intervention, and Swift’s gratitude despite fan devastation and economic impact.(read more)
- The Guardian reports Taylor Swift’s emotional reflection on cancelled Vienna concerts due to a foiled terror plot, praising authorities and fans for unity and safety prioritization.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did Taylor Swift cancel her Vienna shows?
She canceled due to a suspected terror threat targeting her fans.
Did Taylor Swift continue her tour after the Vienna cancellation?
Yes, she continued her tour and performed in London.
How did Taylor Swift’s tour impact the UK economy?
Her tour contributed nearly $1.3 billion to the UK economy.
What security measures were taken for Taylor Swift’s London concerts?
Security was significantly heightened, and she received increased security from the Metropolitan Police.
Did politicians receive free tickets for supporting Taylor Swift’s security measures?
Rumours suggested that free tickets were offered to politicians who supported the additional security measures.