Even when you’re on a whirlwind global tour, the show must go on—even if you’re battling a cold. This weekend, Taylor Swift’s dedication to her fans was on full display in Edinburgh, where the pop sensation continued performing despite some visible signs of a runny nose.
During her performance, some fans noticed Swift discreetly wiping her nose, possibly due to the cool 46.4°F temperature in the stadium. In a viral clip, she was spotted wiping her nose and even brushing her hand across her skirt, sparking an array of reactions on social media. Some admirers expressed empathy for her, while others shared critiques.
Many social media users weighed in, with one noting, “Someone, please get Taylor Swift some tissues! It’s wild how many times I’ve seen her wipe her nose.” Another fan defended her actions, “I’m not even a Swiftie, but I don’t get why people are mad at her for wiping her nose. What else was she supposed to do?” Others pointed out that, despite being unwell, she maintained her performance without missing a beat.
Swift’s UK leg kicked off with three sold-out shows in Edinburgh, marking her first Scottish appearance in years. She’ll then head to London for eight shows at Wembley Stadium, followed by dates in Cardiff and Liverpool. An estimated 720,000 fans are expected to attend the shows in London alone, and her presence in the UK is anticipated to contribute approximately £1 billion to the economy. With ticket prices, travel, accommodations, and merchandise, each UK attendee is estimated to spend an average of £848 to see their idol perform.
While the tour has stirred excitement, it’s also brought ticketing frustrations, with UK fans competing against international buyers, particularly from the US. Many American fans, lured by the strong dollar and lower European prices, have flocked to Swift’s European shows, making it harder for locals to secure tickets. UK fans, who had eagerly awaited Swift’s return, voiced their frustration online, with some saying international demand has driven up prices and created additional challenges in booking accommodations, especially in cities like Edinburgh.
Despite the challenges, Swift’s “Eras Tour” continues to shatter records. So far, she has performed 53 shows in the US and plans to add 50 more across 18 European cities. Following her European dates, she’ll return stateside for additional performances in Miami, New Orleans, and Indianapolis, ensuring that millions of Swifties worldwide get to see her in action.
For Swift, handling occasional hiccups, like battling the cold on stage, is part of her commitment to her fans, showing that her dedication goes beyond the glitter and glamor. In every show, she proves that no matter the obstacles, her bond with her fans remains her top priority.
