Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce may be feeling some relief after a federal judge issued a notable ruling in a Hollywood legal battle that indirectly involved the couple. The judge cautioned lawyers against using legal tactics that could “promote scandal arising out of unproven potentially libelous statements.”
The ruling is part of a complex case where actor Justin Baldoni’s lawyer, Bryan Freedman, accused actress Blake Lively’s legal team of extortion. Freedman claimed that Lively demanded Swift publicly support her in a harassment suit against Baldoni, threatening to release private messages if Swift refused.
Swift, known for her high-profile support of Kelce and frequent attendance at Chiefs games, found herself caught up in this legal spat. Her relationship with Kelce, one of the NFL’s most prominent figures, had shifted her public image during the 2023 football season, as she brought millions of new fans to the Chiefs. However, the ongoing legal battle seems to have strained Swift and Lively’s friendship.
Legal battle strains Swift-Lively friendship
A source told PEOPLE that Swift was “really hurt” by her involvement in Lively’s legal fight, though both stars were reportedly working to “put it all behind them.”
The drama escalated when Swift received a subpoena on May 8, which reportedly “fractured” the already “fragile peace” between her and Lively. It remains unclear whether Swift is distancing herself from Lively’s comments or the potential fallout from the Lively-Baldoni feud.
The legal turmoil has reportedly had a significant impact on Swift and Lively’s friendship, with sources indicating that Swift “wants no part in this (Lively) drama.”
Meanwhile, Swift is anticipated to return to Chiefs games in 2025. This season could be pivotal for Kelce, who had considered retirement after a tough loss. Given his age and growing media deals with his brother, Kelce’s future in the NFL remains a topic of speculation.
Swift’s first chance to support Kelce this season comes in Week 2, in a Super Bowl rematch against her hometown team.
