The persona behind the famed impersonator on coming out, being body shamed, and the joy of being TayTay. “Pag hindi ako si Taylor, nagkakaroon ako ng inner saboteur sa life.”

The persona behind the famed impersonator on coming out, being body shamed, and the joy of being TayTay. “Pag hindi ako si Taylor, nagkakaroon ako ng inner saboteur sa life.”RHIA GRANA | Jul 11 2023 facebook twitterviber

 

“Yes, I did the Eras Tour. I performed for almost one hour and 24 mins. I’m that Swiftie,” Filipino drag performer Taylor Sheesh, or Mac Coronel in real life, proudly declared on Twitter last May after a successful mall performance. The 28-year-old Taylor Swift impersonator has performed in various venues, and is willing to do more mall shows all over the country—if only to help convince the American pop country superstar and Grammy-winning singer-songwriter he idolizes to include the Philippines as one of the stops in her ongoing Eras tour.

For the amazing turnout in his past events, Mac got featured in international publications, among them Rollingstone, Mashable, The Guardian, Philadelphia Inquirer, and Barron’s. “Hindi pa ako nare-recognize ni Taylor,” Mac says, “pero mina-manifest ko yun.”

We don’t see Taylor Sheesh on the monitor when we meet our interviewee via Zoom this early Monday morning. We meet the guy who plays her. Mac just got off work at a call center in BGC. His face shows no touch of makeup and he’s garbed only in a white jacket over a grey polo shirt.

Mac used to hate wearing makeup, wigs, women’s outfits. “Medyo naiirita ako kasi ang kati-kati. Hindi ako comfortable,” he says laughing. But after years of impersonating Taylor, Mac’s gotten used to putting it all on: the fake hair, the dress, the nails, and the face.

His career as a drag performer started in 2017 when he and his besties attended Nectar Nightclub’s Poison Wednesdays Drag Cartel. Joining the club’s lip sync battle was unplanned, says Mac. But since he was dressed and his BFFs knew he’s game for anything, they pushed Mac to, as RuPaul would say, lip sync for his life.

“Siguro sobrang lakas lang ng stage presence ko that night at alam [ng mga friends ko na] masayahin ako kaya pinush nila ako,” she says. “Ako naman, sinubukan ko lang. Andun na rin lang e.” One of the contenders that night was Drag Race Season 1 cast member Viñas Deluxe but Mac was the crowd favorite. He came out as the evening’s top prize winner.

That same night, Nectar’s manager invited Mac to audition for a drag group who will perform at the club every Friday and Saturday. He got through the audition and from then on became a regular artist at Nectar, usually performing alongside the Drag Race queens from the US. Since he’s already a die-hard Swiftie, Mac naturally decided his act will be to impersonate Taylor Swift. And thus was born Taylor Sheesh.

When bars closed over the pandemic, Mac had no choice but to focus on his office job. But when the live entertainment scene began to reawaken, she went back to performing at Nectar. These days, however, Taylor Sheesh has been busy with her mall tours. Her July is fully booked. “Until now marami pa ring nag-i-inquire. Padagdag nang padagdag,” says Mac, obviously thrilled with the Filipino Swifties’ reception.

Since the guy still maintains his call center job, he only accepts gigs scheduled before his shift, which starts at 11PM. “Yung ibang shows natatapat ng 6pm to 8pm, so kahit paano may time to rest pa before work. Yung iba naman natatapat sa rest day ko, Thursday and Friday.”

Mac’s Taylor Swift album collection. Photo courtesy of Mac Coronel

Swiftie since 2009

Mac’s intro to the world of Taylor Swift was thru the song “Fifteen,” a song about the innocence of young love. At that time, he was, well, 15 and in junior high school. “May crush ako nun e,” he says, blushing at the recollection, “kaya super relate ako sa song na yun.”

The more he listened to Taylor’s songs, the more he got hooked. “Naging fan niya ako lalo nung ni-release ang Speak Now in 2010,” he tells us. His most favorite song by the award-winning singer is “Last Kiss,” which is about the end of a relationship.

Mac’s very own Eras Tour started when he attended a Swifties’ listening party at Market! Market! October of last year. “It was the very first listening party I attended. Pumunta ako dun na naka-drag costume as Taylor. Gusto ko lang siya ma-experience as an audience member,” he says. Then someone from Ayala Malls approached Mac and asked if he’d be game to perform onstage. Mac said yes. Being a performer,  he came prepared. Photos and videos of the performance went viral on social media.

What was it like performing as Taylor in front of so many people? “Noong una nakakakaba talaga,” says Mac. “Nakakakaba kasi what if ma-disappoint sila. Ganoon ang pumapasok sa isipan ko. Minsan talaga may self-doubt. Then nakita ko ang reaction ng mga Swifties. Mukhang worth it naman.”

Mac also got invited to perform at the release launch party of Taylor’s Midnights album at the SM Mall of Asia. That exploded on TikTok and other social media platforms and Taylor Sheesh’s popularity skyrocketed. Last Saturday, she was back at Market! Market! performing in front of a massive and energetic crowd.

One hour, 24 minutes

Doing a mall show entails serious preparation. Mac has a trusted mananahi who makes all of his Taylor costumes. But Mac’s the one who personally takes care of all other requirements—from the wig and makeup to the audio-video needs.

When Taylor Swift released the dates of the US leg of her Eras Tour, the admin of Swifties Philippines fan group invited Mac to perform at Ayala Malls Manila Bay. For that show, he had a silver swimsuit made. She also prepared a 30-minute show to the delight of local Taylor Swift fans.

Two months later, the same group hired his services again. They wanted to organize a bigger event, in the hopes that Taylor Swift would add a Philippine stop to her Eras Tour. The guys from Swifties Philippines suggested Mac do a costume change in their next mall event, the way TayTay does in her shows. So Mac requested her mananahi to make five costumes. “Pikit mata akong nagbayad para sa five outfits na yun,” Mac recalls with a laugh.

He studied all the lyrics, the hand gestures, the costume changes. That show was the much-talked about Taylor Sheesh Eras Tour at TriNoma. The show lasted an hour and 24 minutes. “Ang pahinga ko lang nun quick change. Two minutes lang kailangan para makapagpalit na ako ng damit. Yung ibang damit pa dun ball gown.”

Mac even had a show at Nectar the night before the TriNoma gig. He left the club at 6AM and was at the Quezon City mall around 7AM to rehearse the choreography and blocking with the dancers. By 10AM, he was done with rehearsals and spent the next two hours catching up on sleep.

By lunch time, he was up and busy prepping. Without a glam team to get him dolled up; it took him two hours to finish makeup. “Tinry kong kapalan ang makeup para kahit pagpawisan hindi kaagad siya huhulas.”

The show proved very tiring but, says Mac, it was all worth it: with the mileage it got, the Filipino Swifties got the international recognition they deserve.

The real Mac

Mac comes from a middle class family in Antipolo. His father is an auto electrician who runs a repair shop with his siblings, while his mother runs the Coronel household. Mac, a graduate of Computer Technology, is the eldest among three children.

We ask about his coming out story. “Actually hindi pa ako nag-come out ever [sa family ko],” Mac says, his tone turning serious. While he already knew he’s gay since his grade school years, there were no formal talks about it at home.

The first family member who found out was his youngest sister. She discovered a clip of her brother’s performance at Nectar on photographer and Drag Race Philippines judge BJ Pascual’s IG stories. “Bigla akong tinanong ng kapatid ko. Ako daw ba yun? At first, nag-deny muna ako. Noong una natakot talaga ako.”

Mac later got a message from a cousin, which surprised him. “Ang saya-saya niya kasi ang galing ko daw. Na-IG stories ako ni BJ.”

After that, Mac would sometimes wear a wig around the house, in front of his parents. “Hindi naman sila nagtatanong. Siguro aware na sila,” he says.

His TriNoma show in May was the first time his younger brother saw Mac perform in full drag. “After ng show, nung photo op na, lumapit ang kapatid ko. Magpapa-picture daw ang GF niya with me. [I had] mixed emotions. Hindi ko alam ang mararamdaman ko.”

When his performances went viral and articles were written about it, he just assumed his parents have seen them for sure. “Pero parang deadma pa rin,” he says. “Hindi ako nag-o-open talaga. If they ask me about it, then go. Pero yung mga kapatid ko, pinsan ko, accepted nila.”

At first, Mac would respond to the bashing, but he realized the haters will never stop. “Nakakapagod din, so dinededma ko na lang,” he says. Photo courtesy of Mac Coronel

Sheesh the one

What Mac considers one of the toughest struggles he had to deal with as a drag performer is the body shaming. “Yun ang pinaka nakakapag-trigger sa akin,” says the 5-ft, 7-inch-tall Mac who cuts quite a skinny figure. “Minsan nagsuot ako ng swimsuit costume at pinost ko sa social media, dun na nag-start ang body shaming.” He says he tried everything he could to gain weight, but the guy’s just naturally on the thin side. “Inaatake ako ng anxiety at insecurity when it comes to that.”

At first, Mac would respond to the bashing, but he realized the haters will never stop. So he simply blocks or ignores them on social media. “Nakakapagod din, so dinededma ko na lang,” he says.

Mac says he’s happiest when he’s playing Taylor Sheesh. “Pag hindi ako si Taylor, nagkakaroon ako ng inner saboteur sa life. Palaging may self-doubt,” she says. “Unlike pag naka-drag ako, parang tumataas ang confidence level ko. Lalo na pag maraming crowd, parang may ibang energy na sumasanib sa akin.” He laughs.

The die-hard Swiftie is thrilled to share he was able to secure a VIP ticket to one of Swift’s Singapore shows. This is first time he‘ll be able to watch her idol perform live. The last time Swift visited the Philippines in 2014, he just didn’t have the money for a ticket. “College pa lang ako nun. So ang mahal na sa akin ng P2,000. Nakanuod ako noon dahil may nag-livestream sa Twitter.”

Mac’s VIP ticket, which includes a hotel accommodation, turned out to cost P68,000. “Nung nakita ko ang price ng ticket, sabi ko sa sarili ko, ‘Okey, kailangan kumayod,’” he says. “Kasi once in a lifetime experience ito e. Money will return but Taylor won’t.”

Jason Kelce and Jackson Mahomes bumped into each other in Las Vegas on Saturday night as their Kansas City Chiefs star brothers, Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes, prepared for Super Bowl LVIII.

While Travis and Patrick were getting an early night ahead of their showdown against the San Francisco 49ers, their brothers were hitting Sin City’s strip.

DailyMail.com photos showed Jason and Jackson greeting one another in the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas hotel ahead of showing some brotherly love at Allegiant Stadium Sunday. –

The pair exchanged a handshake and a few words, while NFL fans swarmed around them with a few left star-struck at seeing Jason in the flesh.

Jason, the Philadelphia Eagles‘ star center, has flown in from the City of Brotherly Love this week and is set to put his own to the test as he cheers on tight end brother, alongside their mom Donna, his wife Kylie and Travis’s girlfriend Taylor Swift.

 

Jason Kelce and Jackson Mahomes bumped into each other in Las Vegas on Saturday night

DailyMail.com photos showed the pair greeting one another in the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

The two will be cheering on brothers Patrick Mahomes (L) and Travis Kelce (R) on Sunday –

This time last year, the NFL veteran was getting ready to play in the big game himself with his Eagles facing Travis’s Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII – which was dubbed the Kelce Bowl after the two future Hall of Famers.

However, this year, the Eagles, who ultimately fell to the Chiefs in Arizona in 2023, stumbled at the first postseason hurdle.

Philadelphia was eliminated from the playoffs by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the wild card round with Jason now said to be considering retirement, which has led to rumored meetings with Fox and ESPN over a potential career in the broadcast booth.

Yet, while Jason’s Super Bowl dreams came to an end, he hasn’t stopped supporting Travis throughout the Chiefs’ road to Vegas, including a viral shirtless celebration against the Buffalo Bills.

This week, he has been soaking up all the bright light city of Las Vegas has to offer with wife Kylie, including Adele’s residency show on Friday night.

Meanwhile, Jackson, who is infamous for his antics on social media at his older brother’s NFL games, was also in Sin City for the big game.

The pair exchanged a handshake and a few words in the middle of the Las Vegas hotel

The two then went their own ways as they enjoyed a Staurday night in Sin City

NFL fans swarmed around them with a few star-struck at seeing Jason in the flesh

He was surprisingly captured hanging out with Travis’ ex Kayla Nicole despite his sister-in-law Brittany’s friendship with the tight end’s new flame Taylor Swift.

Nicole has been in a rocky situation with members of Kansas City since her relationship with Kelce came to an end in 2022 but seemingly not Jackson.

According to TMZ, the two met up at the High Limit Lounge at the Aria Resort and Casino on the Las Vegas Strip on Thursday night and spent about an hour together.

The outlet’s sources say that the pair appeared to bump into each other, but other witnesses said it appeared to be more coordinated after Jackson was waiting for about a minute at the hotel’s bar.

TMZ says the conversation between the two was warm and they appeared to have an enthralling discussion.

Kayla recently unfollowed both Patrick and Brittany Mahomes on social media, saying that she wanted to ‘protect’ herself while her former boyfriend was dating pop superstar Taylor Swift.

Jason has supported  Travis throughout the Chiefs’ playoffs, including a shirtless celebration

Jackson Mahomes and Kayla Nicole (pictured in 2021) met up in Las Vegas on Thursday

Kayla recently unfollowed Patrick Mahomes and his wife Brittany (L) on social media

The Mahomes trio have been prominent public figures since 2018 when Patrick won NFL MVP

‘I do think it’s important to publicly address this because I did publicly unfollow people,’ Kayla told People at the time. ‘The reality is I know these people in real life. And so, in real life, I’ve communicated to these people why I’ve had to publicly make the decisions that I made.

‘To everyone it’s like, “Oh, you broke up a year ago,” and that meant it’s like a light switch, you turn it on and off and everything goes dead and black and you don’t ever speak to anyone ever again. That’s not reality. I have ongoing relationships with all parties involved.’

The model added she and Brittany ‘have had our conversations,’ and that the wife of the two-time MVP ‘knows that I love her.’

But Jackson shared a somewhat strained moment with Brittany this weekend when he appeared to be denied access to a VIP section at an event where his sister-in-law was located during a Future concert.

Jackson visibly told a security guard he was the Chiefs quarterback’s younger brother, and therefore related to Brittany, while being denied access.

However, Brittany, who shares two children with signal caller Patrick, gave two obvious shrugs at her brother-in-law, then continued to dance to the rapper’s music.

The Sυper Bowl witпessed two iпteпse coпversatioпs. The first occυrred betweeп tight eпd Travis Kelce aпd Kaпsas City Chiefs head coach Aпdy Reid. Theп, Mahomes eпgaged iп a heated exchaпge with wide receiver Rashee Rice. Mahomes provides explaпatioпs for both iпcideпts.

Dυriпg the secoпd qυarter, teпsioпs rose betweeп Kelce aпd Reid wheп the Chiefs trailed 3-0. Kelce, aged 34, disagreed with the game plaп aпd made his feeliпgs kпowп to the head coach. The argυmeпt betweeп Mahomes aпd Rice happeпed after regυlatioп time aпd before overtime.

Rice was dissatisfied with Mahomes’ decisioп to opt for a field goal iпstead of passiпg him the ball, which coυld have secυred victory iп the Sυper Bowl. Both coпversatioпs were heated bυt eпded amicably with the triυmph iп haпd. Mahomes attribυtes this to the team’s ability to coпtrol their emotioпs aпd boυпce back stroпger.

“We caп let oυr emotioпs show, aпd theп we caп reel it right back iп aпd be better for it,” Mahomes stated oп ESPN. The three-time Sυper Bowl MVP emphasized the lack of ego withiп the υпit, highlightiпg the special camaraderie amoпg the players iп Kaпsas City. While the Chiefs’ groυp is iпdeed special, Mahomes’ iпdividυal brilliaпce was evideпt iп his performaпce dυriпg the crυcial momeпts of the game.

The iпstant classic of the Kaпsas City Chiefs coпtiпυes as they secυre their third Sυper Bowl victory iп five years, all of which were comeback wiпs led by Mahomes himself. The 75-yard drive that sealed this Sυper Bowl victory was particυlarly impressive.

Startiпg from their owп half, the drive coпclυded with a toυchdowп pass from Mahomes to wide receiver Mecole Hardmaп. Spaппiпg 13 plays, the drive showcased Mahomes’ versatility, featυriпg short throws, deep passes, aпd rυshes. The qυarterback has υпdeпiably solidified his legacy.

Do yoυ believe Patrick Mahomes caп be coпsidered the greatest of all time (GOAT)? Share yoυr predictioпs iп the commeпts.

The revelation that LeBron James turned down a bid from the Golden State Warriors to acquire him in a deadline deal sent shockwaves through the NBA world. Despite the potential blockbuster trade not coming to fruition, speculation has arisen about the possibility of James joining the Warriors in the future.

According to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, the Warriors may not be finished in their pursuit of James. Despite the initial rejection, Lowe suggested that Golden State could continue to explore opportunities to acquire the Lakers All-Star forward. As Stephen Curry mentioned, there’s no harm in picking up the phone and making further attempts.

“You can’t blame the Warriors for trying, and I’ll tell you this… I don’t think the Warriors are done trying because like Steph [Curry] said, why not pick up the phone and keep on trying?” Lowe said.

James currently holds a $51.4 million player option for the 2024-25 season, providing him with flexibility in his decision-making process. Should he choose to explore free agency in the future, the possibility remains open for him to consider joining the Warriors.

While the potential acquisition of James by the Warriors would undoubtedly shake up the NBA landscape, it remains speculative at this point. However, with both parties seemingly open to exploring possibilities, the idea of James donning a Warriors jersey in the future cannot be entirely discounted.

LeBron James made NBA history by competing in his 20th All-Star game, highlighting his remarkable career spanning over two decades. Throughout his 21-year tenure in the NBA, James has consistently showcased his exceptional talent, earning All-Star selections in nearly every season of his professional career since entering the league straight out of high school.

“I don’t know how it’s going to end, but it’s coming,” James said ahead of the All-Star game. “It’s coming, for sure.”

Despite acknowledging that he is approaching the twilight of his career, James remains focused on his current team, the Los Angeles Lakers. While there have been rumors suggesting potential trades or the possibility of joining the team that drafts his son, Bronny James, LeBron clarified his desire to conclude his career with the Lakers. He expressed gratitude for his time with the Lakers over the past six years and expressed hope that he would continue wearing their uniform.

However, LeBron also acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future, emphasizing that he does not have all the answers regarding the duration of his career or which team he will ultimately play for. He highlighted the Lakers’ esteemed history and expressed his desire to continue representing the organization.

“I am a Laker and I’m happy and been very happy being a Laker the last six years and hopefully it stays that way,” James said. “But I don’t have the answer to how long it is or which uniform I’ll be in. Hopefully [it] is with the Lakers. It’s a great organization, so many greats. But we’ll see.” via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

 

As fans witness LeBron’s unparalleled greatness on the basketball court, they are urged to appreciate the opportunity to watch one of the NBA’s greatest players before his illustrious career comes to an end. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his retirement, LeBron James’s impact on the game of basketball will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

According to Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, Lakers star LeBron James received treatment on his ankle ahead of the All-Star Weekend and is expected to continue receiving treatment in the coming days.

James indicated that the ankle injury may sideline him for Thursday’s game against the Golden State Warriors. Despite being one of the oldest players in the league, James has only missed seven games all year. However, the ankle injury forced him to sit out the Lakers’ final game before the All-Star break against the Utah Jazz.

During his media availability on Sunday, James mentioned, “I won’t be playing the entire game tonight for sure,” as reported by Rachel Nichols. He initially injured his ankle in December and has been managing it since then.

Despite the injury, James made his 20th All-Star Game appearance in 21 years, averaging 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game this season. He played limited minutes in the All-Star Game, contributing eight points, four rebounds, and three assists.

Regarding his injury, James stated, “Trying to get my ankle as strong and back to where I feel confident that I can finish off this last third of the season. I won’t be playing the entire game tonight, for sure. I can get out there and run around with the young guys for a little bit and then shut it down at some point to give my body, and my ankle more importantly, another opportunity to rest.”

With a record of 30-26, the Lakers currently sit in ninth place in the Western Conference standings and are on track to participate in the play-in tournament for the third time in four years. Despite his injury, James has maintained impressive averages of 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists this season.

Stephen A. Smith Criticizes LeBron James for Slam Dunk Contest Decline

In a scathing critique following another lackluster Slam Dunk Contest, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back in assigning blame to Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James for the event’s decline.

Smith launched into his tirade by asserting, “LeBron James is directly responsible for ruining the Slam Dunk Contest,” a sentiment echoed by his colleague Kendrick Perkins.

Highlighting the golden era of the Slam Dunk Contest from 1985 to 1997, Smith underscored the absence of star power in recent years, attributing it to James’ decision to eschew participation. “Every high jumper, every sky walker, every above-the-rim talent salivated for the opportunity… It stopped when LeBron James said, ‘I’m not doing it.’”

While acknowledging the involvement of future All-Stars in the contest post-Jam

es’ era, Smith emphasized that it failed to recapture its former glory, save for the memorable clashes between Zach LaVine and Aaron Gordon.

Indeed, James’ immense popularity and influence within the basketball community set a precedent for how players prioritize such events. However, Smith’s critique raises questions about the collective responsibility of NBA stars in revitalizing the Slam Dunk Contest.

While James undoubtedly bears a portion of the blame, the onus should not rest solely on his shoulders, considering the exhibition nature of All-Star weekend. Despite its diminished stature, the Slam Dunk Contest remains a cherished tradition for fans, signaling a need for collective effort in restoring its former allure.

Amidst a relatively stable roster in 2024, where key defensive players like Chris Jones and L’Jarius Sneed are expected to stay, the spotlight for the Kansas City Chiefs in the upcoming NFL draft seems to shine on the wide receiver position.

ESPN insider Field Yates, unveiling his initial 2024 mock draft on February 14, anticipated the Chiefs opting for Texas Longhorns wide receiver Adonai Mitchell with the 32nd pick.

Yates articulated, “The Chiefs’ wide receiver needs are well-documented, and Mitchell could provide a significant boost. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 196 pounds, he showcases smooth route-running skills and possesses the physical attributes to excel both downfield and in the red zone.”

He continued, “After the success with Rashee Rice in last April’s second round, this move would offer another dynamic playmaker to fortify the passing game for Patrick Mahomes and the reigning Super Bowl champions. Mitchell’s impressive 11 touchdowns and an average of 15.4 yards per catch last season underscore his potential impact.”

Analyzing Mitchell’s strengths, experts emphasize his polished route-running. Derrik Klassen of Bleacher Report and Keith Sanchez from The Draft Network echoed Yates, praising Mitchell’s ability to create separation and move fluidly on the field.

Sanchez highlighted, “Mitchell displays smooth route-running skills across short, intermediate, and deep routes, reminiscent of veterans like Travis Kelce and Rice, which aligns with Coach Andy Reid’s offensive strategy.”

Yet, Mitchell’s post-catch yardage and blocking capabilities are viewed as areas for improvement. Klassen pointed out his inconsistency in contested catches and blocking, while acknowledging his vertical speed as a notable asset.

Comparisons to veteran Marquez Valdes-Scantling suggest Mitchell could fill a similar role in the Chiefs’ lineup.

Sanchez concluded, “Mitchell’s blend of size, athleticism, and route-running acumen makes him an intriguing prospect, ideally suited for an offense utilizing pre-snap motion and stacked alignments to exploit defensive matchups.”

As alternatives to Mitchell, Charles Goldman, a media member at A-to-Z Sports, proposed Oregon WR Troy Franklin as a potential first-round pick for the Chiefs. Goldman emphasized Franklin’s versatility and knack for creating missed tackles, while acknowledging his need to bulk up for NFL-level performance.

From ZERO to HERO: Kelce FLIPS THE SCRIPT, Wins Award He Called “NONSENSE”!

Travis Kelce just pulled off the biggest upset of the year, winning Athlete of the Year at the People’s Choice Awards after SHOCKINGLY calling his nomination “fking nonsense”** months ago!

Remember when Kelce ROASTED the awards show? Yeah, us too. He publicly questioned his inclusion amongst legends like LeBron James and Lionel Messi, even throwing shade at Simone Biles’ husband!

But guess what? Kelce walked away a WINNER despite the drama! Did his controversial comments and high-profile relationship with pop star Taylor Swift (who also won BIG) influence the vote?

The internet is EXPLODING! Memes are flying, fans are FUMING, and everyone’s asking: WHAT JUST HAPPENED?

Was this a calculated move by Kelce to drum up publicity? Did the awards show capitalize on the drama for ratings? The plot THICKENS! ️‍♀️.

One thing’s for sure: Kelce’s journey from denouncing the nomination to claiming the award is a VIRAL sensation that’s leaving everyone speechless!

Taylor Swift’s latest favor for Travis Kelce: She helps him win the award he least cared about

Kelce isn’t a fan of the People’s Choice Awards

Travis Kelce was named Athlete of the Year by the People’s Choice Awards before the Kansas City Chiefs‘ tight end won Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers, despite him describing his own nomination as “f**king nonsense”. How did Taylor Swift help?

The battled out names such as LeBron James (NBA), Lionel Messi (soccer), Coco Gauff (tennis) and Simone Biles (gymnastics) to win the prize but he didn’t think he was worthy to be placed against such names as he spoke to Jason Kelce, his brother.

Travis Kelce had one question for Taylor Swift when he saw her after Super Bowl

“”How am I on this?” Travis asked on the New Heights podcast he runs, adding: “What did I do to get Athlete of the Year? I did ‘SNL’ (Saturday Night Live)?”

Kelce has become more popular since Swift began dating him publicly in September 2023, and there is no doubt that he would have gained more votes via association with how devoted Swifties (her fans) are.

But perhaps Swift‘s reputation wasn’t the only culprit in the matter as Jason Kelce, who plays for the Philadelphia Eagles, called on fans to hijack the voting in response to his brother’s bewilderment.

Swift dominates People’s Choice Awards

Of course, Swifties were well interested in the awards ceremony for 2023 as their idol was nominated almost half a dozen times and took home four wins to add to her growing accolades cabinet.

The 34-year-old singer received nominations for Concert Tour of the Year, Female Artist, Pop Artist, Social Celebrity of the Year and Movie of the Year as she won all of them except for the movie where she was beaten by Barbie.

The pair didn’t manage to make their first red carpet appearance as their schedules refused to align with Kelce‘s NFL commitments and Swift’s Eras Tour obligations, but fans hoping to see the dynamic duo back together won’t have to wait long.

Kelce will be with her in either Australia or Singapore, if the comments on his podcast are anything to go off.

“I am about to go f**ling venture myself over to an island here soon,” Kelce said to his brother. “I don’t know… I think the best ones are south right now, so I’m going to go south.”

Several υsers amoпg her 935K followers voiced their distaste for the images, with some eveп expressiпg that the gowп did пot do Brittaпy’s figυre jυstice.

Takiпg to her Iпstagram stories, the Whitehoυse, Texas пative addressed the trolls, sayiпg: ‘well ladies, пot tryiпg to look “skiппy” iп my materпity pics, I’m very pregпaпt aпd пot here to try aпd make myself пot look pregпaпt…’

She added aпother missive lower dowп, writiпg, ‘Womeп beiпg hatefυl to other womeп oп social media serioυsly пeeds to stop! If yoυ have пothiпg пice to say THEN STFU’ A sυbseqυeпt image saw Brittaпy blowiпg a kiss to the camera iп a boomeraпg.

The message oп the bottom read, ‘Shoυtoυt to all my amaziпg, sweet aпd sυpportive followers oп here that always go to war with the hatefυl & awfυl people oп my post!

‘Yoυ gυys are jυst the best,’ she coпclυded, addiпg emojis for love, prayer haпds aпd a kiss face.Brittaпy aпd Patrick aппoυпced that they were expectiпg their first child, a baby girl, iп September.

Earlier that moпth was wheп the pair got eпgaged.

Iп the iпterim, the Kaпsas City Chiefs qυarterback aпd his team faced off agaiпst Tampa Bay Bυccaпeers aпd QB Tom Brady at Sυper Bowl LV earlier this moпth, where they lost.