The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) were undoubtedly a night to remember, especially for pop icon Taylor Swift, who bagged multiple awards and delivered some memorable speeches. However, much of the post-show buzz wasn’t about the awards or performances but rather about the absence of her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs star tight end. His absence raised eyebrows and sparked intense fan reactions online.
Although it was confirmed that Kelce skipped the event due to work commitments, many fans and social media users had their own theories about why he missed the highly anticipated night.
Why Travis Kelce Wasn’t at the 2024 VMAs
According to Page Six, Travis Kelce had a legitimate reason for missing the event. As per the report, the Kansas City Chiefs player was required to be back in Kansas City for football practice ahead of an important game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The two teams are scheduled to face off on September 15, 2024, at 4:25 p.m. ET in Week 2 of the NFL season.
An insider told the outlet, “[Travis] had to be back in Kansas City by Tuesday for practice,” explaining why he couldn’t attend the VMAs at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on Wednesday night. His absence came despite the event being a big night for Swift, who was the most nominated artist of the evening.
Fans Are Not Convinced: Theories Fly Online
Even though the official reason for Kelce’s absence seemed valid, some fans weren’t entirely convinced. Social media platforms were soon buzzing with theories and opinions about why Kelce may have chosen to sit out one of the biggest nights in Swift’s career.
Some users speculated that Kelce’s absence had more to do with his priorities. One Twitter user commented, “I think he’s not at Taylor’s award [show] because he’s not interested in her! He’s more interested in his career.” Another fan humorously chimed in, “He obviously doesn’t have time to have a matching dress made,” poking fun at Kelce’s absence with a lighthearted quip.
Meanwhile, some fans took it a step further, suggesting that Kelce’s absence indicated trouble in paradise for the couple. “Now. The breakup we all heard was coming,” one commenter suggested, while another echoed, “Great loss—beginning of the end…”
Despite these rampant speculations, neither Swift nor Kelce have made any comments regarding the possibility of a split.
Taylor Swift’s Sweet Shoutout to Travis Kelce
While Kelce’s absence stirred online debates, Swift seemed unfazed and took the opportunity to publicly acknowledge her boyfriend during her Video of the Year acceptance speech. After winning the award for her and Post Malone’s collaboration on the song “Fortnight,” Swift reminisced about Kelce’s unwavering support during the video shoot.
Travis Kelce during an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens in Kansas City, Missouri on September 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
“Something that I’ll always remember is that when I would finish a take and I’d say cut, I would always just hear someone cheering, like, ‘Woo,’ from across the studio. That person was my boyfriend, Travis,” Swift recalled with a smile.
The audience erupted into cheers upon hearing her mention Kelce, and Swift continued, “Everything this man touches turns to happiness, fun, and magic. So I want to thank him for adding that to our shoot because I’ll always remember that.”
The touching tribute gave the audience a glimpse into the couple’s dynamic, with Swift showing her gratitude for Kelce’s support. However, online reactions to her shoutout were more divided.
Fans React: Genuine Love or Part of a “Contract”?
While the VMAs audience loved Swift’s heartfelt tribute, many fans on social media had their doubts. Some suggested that Swift’s mention of Kelce was part of a public relations strategy rather than a genuine romantic gesture.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift at the Men’s Singles Final match between Taylor Fritz and Jannik Sinner during the 2024 US Open in Queens borough, New York City on September 8, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
“She had to mention [Kelce], it’s part of the ‘arrangement,’” one Instagram user speculated, implying that the relationship might be more calculated than authentic. Another echoed the sentiment with a cryptic remark: “‘[I’ll] always remember that.’ The contract between them is about to end. 💀.”
These comments point to a growing theory among certain fans that Swift and Kelce’s relationship could be more of a PR move than a genuine romance. Despite these rumors, neither Swift nor Kelce have commented on the nature of their relationship.
Travis Kelce’s Growing Fame
As Kelce’s name continues to be associated with one of the biggest stars in the music industry, some fans also believe that the NFL star is enjoying his growing fame. One social media user remarked, “He is loving the fame.. 😂,” while another simply stated, “Not a fan of hers anymore! Actually, never was!”
Taylor Swift during her Video of the Year award acceptance speech at the 2024 VMAs in Elmont, New York on September 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
These reactions suggest that Kelce’s rising celebrity status, driven in part by his relationship with Swift, is drawing mixed feelings from fans. While some enjoy the crossover of sports and music stardom, others remain skeptical of the motivations behind their public appearances together.
Taylor Swift’s Record-Breaking Night
Despite the drama surrounding Kelce’s absence, Swift still had a triumphant night at the VMAs. She was the most nominated artist of the night, with 12 nominations in total, including Video of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Cinematography, and Best Collaboration for her song “Fortnight” with Post Malone.
Swift’s dominance at the VMAs solidified her status as one of the most celebrated artists in music today, and her heartfelt acceptance speeches—including the one that featured Kelce—helped remind the world of her down-to-earth personality.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Swift and Kelce?
Taylor Swift | Source: Getty Images
While Travis Kelce’s absence from the 2024 VMAs sparked rampant fan speculation and online theories, the official explanation remains rooted in his commitment to his NFL career. Swift, on the other hand, continues to shine in the music world, breaking records and collecting awards.
As for the couple’s relationship, only time will tell what lies ahead. Whether Kelce’s absence was purely for work reasons or signals something more, Swift’s public shoutout at the VMAs suggests that their bond is still strong. Fans will undoubtedly keep watching closely for any new developments in the relationship between one of music’s biggest stars and one of football’s biggest names.
