The anticipation is high for the 2026 Super Bowl performer, and Taylor Swift‘s decision may play a huge part in how the halftime show turns out. In recent weeks, word has been going around about the singer being in talks to take the stage at the NFL’s grand championship game next year. While it appears that Swift has yet to make a decision, recent claims have also suggested that if she ends up declining, the backup artists will likely not perform for a particular reason.
Taylor Swift declining Super Bowl 2026 could cause a stir, says source
A new report claims that Taylor Swift declining the Super Bowl 2026 may end up causing a stir. The pop star is reportedly still in talks to perform at next year’s halftime show. Amid this, it appears that other artists are now hesitant to take up the gig in case Swift declines. This is because the news about the singer negotiating terms has already made headlines. Therefore, this may end up affecting how the next potential performer’s show is perceived.
Rob Shuter‘s #ShuterScoop exclusively learned from sources that backup artists for the 2026 halftime show are hesitating to come on board if Swift declines. An insider noted that once the “Blank Space” hitmaker’s name was “floated, it changed everything.” They continued to add that Swift is “the biggest star in the world right now.” The insider further suggested that whoever is signed after she turns down will “look like a consolation prize.”
Besides Swift, the potential performers for the 2026 Super Bowl reportedly also include Adele and Miley Cyrus. Both singers are undoubtedly among the best performers. Despite that, the #ShuterScoop report claimed that they are concerned about the “shadow” Swift casts. A source continued that “it’s almost impossible to measure up” after the “Bad Blood” singer‘s “name is in the mix.”
Meanwhile, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell added to the speculations after praising Swift during a recent talk-show appearance. Now, they are reportedly concerned about setting the expectations too high. The #ShuterScoop insider continued that fans are “already picturing a Taylor-sized extravaganza.” They added, “Anything less will feel like a letdown.”
Originally reported by Shriya Swami on Reality Tea.
