Singer Taylor Swift is facing backlash over connections to Scientology after she was seen spending time with Tom Cruise during a Missouri game.
Cruise has long been one of the most prominent celebrity supporters of the Church of Scientology, having joined the organization in the 1980s and becoming an outspoken advocate for it over the years. His association with Scientology has repeatedly drawn criticism, particularly because of controversies surrounding the organization and Cruise’s public promotion of its teachings.
The connection led to significant criticism of Swift after she was seen with the actor. The two were spotted talking in a VIP suite while watching the Kansas City Chiefs play against the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. This was the first game Swift attended to support her husband, Travis Kelce, following their marriage. The video that fueled the backlash showed Swift and Cruise engaged in a conversation during the game, although it is unclear what they were discussing.
Because of Cruise’s Scientology connection, celebrities photographed spending time with him can sometimes face scrutiny from people who question their decision to associate with him. Swift’s recent appearance alongside Cruise at the Chiefs game similarly led some people online to bring up his Scientology ties and criticize her for being seen with the actor. However, being seen with Cruise does not by itself establish that Swift supports or is involved with Scientology.
Fans Draf Taylor Swift After Being Spotted With Tom Cruise At Missouri Game
After Taylor Swift was seen with Tom Cruise at the Missouri game, some fans quickly criticized her. As mentioned previously, the criticism comes as Scientology continues to face scrutiny online. “She sure knows how to pick friends. [Throw up emoji],” one person wrote. Others were curious about what Swift and Cruise were discussing, with another person saying, “There is a lady on TikTok who reads lips. She does celebrities on the red carpet. We need her for this.”
More people criticized Swift over her interaction with Cruise. One person joked that Cruise was telling the singer, “Scientology is not a cult, I think you and Travis should just come to a meeting and listen.” Another person said, “Her invite list, the Toy Story song, this… seems super blatantly aimed at establishing herself in Hollywood (more so than Cats and her other attempts). Or looking for a job for Travis post-NFL.”
Swift’s appearance with Cruise prompted opinions over whether celebrities should face criticism simply for being seen spending time with Cruise, regardless of their own views or beliefs.
