The New York Times sparked controversy this week when it published a piece speculating on pop superstar Taylor Swift’s sexuality. Written by editor Anna Marks, the article suggested that Swift has been signaling her queerness to the world for years through her music and performances. However, the piece has drawn sharp criticism from Swift’s associates, who argue that the article would not have been written about a male artist in the same situation.
In the article, Marks points to a long list of LGBTQ references in Swift’s work, from subtle nods to more explicit statements. She argues that, when viewed together, these references suggest that Swift may identify as queer and has been trying to communicate this to her audience. However, Swift has denied being a member of the LGBTQ community in the past. In a 2019 interview with Vogue, she stated that she aims to be a good ally to the community, but does not identify as queer herself.
In @nytopinion
“Whether she is conscious of it or not, Ms. Swift signals to queer people — in the language we use to communicate with one another — that she has some affinity for queer identity,” writes Anna Marks.https://t.co/WhqhXqq5AG
— The New York Times (@nytimes) January 4, 2024
Despite this, the article has caused many to question the boundaries of journalism and the ethics of speculating about a person’s sexuality without their consent. A person close to the situation, who requested anonymity, told CNN that there seems to be no limit to what some journalists will write about Swift, regardless of how invasive, untrue, or inappropriate it may be. They also noted that this article would not have been allowed to be written about a male artist in a similar situation, highlighting a double standard in media coverage.
Taylor Swift’s associates are ‘dismayed’ at the publication of a 5,000-word New York Times opinion piece that openly speculated on her sexuality and whether she is a closeted queer person, CNN reports:
“There seems to be no boundary some journalists won’t cross when writing… pic.twitter.com/E8YOtARKxk
— Pop Base (@PopBase) January 6, 2024
Moreover, it is highly unusual for a reputable news organization like The New York Times to publish an article speculating on a person’s sexuality, let alone a figure as culturally significant as Taylor Swift. The article has been widely condemned for being inappropriate and highly sensationalized. Some readers have also criticized The Times for giving a platform to an article that relies on unsubstantiated speculations and personal interpretations.
In response to the criticism, Marks addressed the issue within the piece itself, acknowledging that discussing someone’s potential queerness before they have officially come out can be seen as salacious or gossip-driven. However, she argues that recognizing the possibility of queerness in a public figure is important in keeping the conversation alive and allowing for greater representation and acceptance in media and society.
The reaction to the article highlights the intense scrutiny that Swift has faced throughout her career, with constant speculation about her romantic relationships and sexuality. In her re-released album “1989,” Swift even wrote about how she surrounded herself with female friends to avoid being sexualized by the media and society. The fact that such an article could be published in a respected publication like The New York Times only adds to the pressure and scrutiny that Swift and other public figures face.
The Times, however, has declined to comment on the criticism and has stood by the decision to publish the piece. As for Taylor Swift, she has yet to publicly respond to the article.
