At the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams took a moment to reflect on her admiration for Taylor Swift and the impact of her longtime friends and family, who have been her rock throughout her career. During her speech, Abrams expressed her gratitude for the incredible artists she’s had the chance to share stages with, including the likes of Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Noah Kahan, and the National. It was clear that for Gracie, Taylor Swift holds a special place as an artist and role model.
The spotlight, however, was not just on Gracie’s heartfelt words. The night was buzzing with excitement surrounding Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, who were nominated together for their joint appearance at one of Swift's Eras tour concerts. Although neither Taylor nor Travis attended the 2025 awards show at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, their names were still a hot topic throughout the event. The two were nominated for Favorite Surprise Guest, a nod to Kelce’s memorable cameo during one of Swift's London performances in June 2024.
While Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs' tight end, and Taylor Swift, the pop sensation, weren’t present in person, their influence was certainly felt. This nomination for Favorite Surprise Guest stemmed from their shared moment during the Eras tour, which has since become an iconic event in their relationship. Kelce's surprise appearance came at the height of their budding romance, adding even more significance to the Eras tour, which marked the launch of their relationship.
Taylor Swift had an impressive night, earning nominations in eight additional categories, including Artist of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration, Best Lyrics, and Best Music Video for her song "Fortnite" featuring Post Malone. She also earned recognition for Favorite Tour Tradition (for her 22 hat and surprise songs), Favorite Tour Style, and Favorite On-Screen Moment for her Eras tour film. These nominations reflected just how successful and transformative the Eras tour has been for Swift, solidifying her place in music history.
For Taylor and Travis, the Eras tour is especially significant. It’s not only a career milestone for Taylor but also the foundation of their relationship. In July 2023, Travis tried to meet Taylor at one of her concerts in Kansas City, Missouri. After missing the chance, he openly shared the story, which led Taylor to reach out to him. The couple eventually had their full circle moment in June 2024, when Travis joined Taylor on stage for a wardrobe change during her Eras tour in London.
Looking back on the moment, Travis revealed that the idea for his cameo was his own. “I initially mentioned to Tay, I was like, how funny would it be if I just rolled out on one of the bikes during the 1989 section?” Travis recalled during a July 2024 episode of the New Heights Podcast, hosted by him and his brother Jason Kelce. “She started laughing and asked if I’d actually be up for doing it, and I said, ‘Of course! Are you kidding me?’”
Travis continued, describing how the show’s structure made it a perfect fit for him to join. “I’ve seen the show enough, I might as well put me to work here,” he said with a laugh. “She found the perfect part of the show for me to come in. There was no bike in case I ran into somebody else or hit one of the dancers—it was like the safest option.”
Their surprise moment together on stage marked a turning point in their relationship, with the couple publicly sharing their connection, making it all the more special for both fans and the media.
At the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s influence was undeniable. Even though they were not present to collect their joint nomination for Favorite Surprise Guest, the couple’s romance continues to captivate fans around the world. As Taylor continues to dominate the music scene and Travis returns for his 13th NFL season, it’s clear that their bond is stronger than ever, with a love story that keeps unfolding in the spotlight.