Taylor Swift Breaks Silence on Canceled Shows After Foiled Terror Plot
ICARO Media Group
Taylor Swift has finally addressed the recent cancellation of three shows on her Eras Tour in Vienna, Austria, following the foiling of an alleged terror plot. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the popstar explained her initial silence and expressed her gratitude towards the authorities for ensuring the safety of her fans.
The cancellation of the Vienna shows left Swift devastated, not only because of the disappointment it caused to her fans, but also because of the fear it instilled in her. In a lengthy post shared on Wednesday, August 21, Swift revealed her mixed emotions about the situation. She expressed guilt for the fans who had planned to attend the shows, but also relief that the authorities intervened, turning the cancellation into a matter of concerts and not lives.
Despite the setback, Swift found solace in the unity and love displayed by her fans in Vienna. They took to the streets, singing her songs together and exchanging friendship bracelets, a tradition at her shows. This outpouring of support helped Swift gather strength and focus on completing the remaining dates of her European leg of the tour safely.
In response to critics who questioned her silence, Swift clarified that her choice to stay quiet was fueled by a desire to protect her fans from any potential harm. She believed that speaking out prematurely might have provoked those who intended harm, and therefore, she exercised restraint. Prioritizing the safety of her fans, Swift worked closely with British authorities to ensure the success of her shows at London's Wembley Stadium, which concluded on Tuesday, August 20.
Swift's London shows became a cherished moment for her, as she described them as a "beautiful dream sequence" and a source of "carefree calm" onstage. She expressed her gratitude towards the guests who joined her on stage, including Ed Sheeran, Florence Welch, and Jack Antonoff. Additionally, Swift proudly shared her accomplishment of becoming the first solo artist to perform at Wembley eight times in a single tour.
In conclusion, Swift thanked her fans for their unwavering support throughout the European leg of her tour, expressing that they hold a special place in her memories. She assured them that the tour would resume in October, but for now, she and her team will take a well-deserved break. Swift expressed her utmost gratitude for the adventure of a lifetime and expressed her hope for it to continue.
The cancellation of Swift's Vienna shows came after the arrest of two Austrian men, aged 19 and 17, who were allegedly planning an attack on her performances. Authorities revealed that the older suspect had intentions to cause harm using explosives and knives. Subsequently, an 18-year-old was also arrested in connection with the foiled plot, believed to have links to ISIS. These arrests followed a tragic incident in Southport, England, where three young girls were killed during a Swift-themed yoga class. Swift had previously met with two survivors from the event during her London tour stop, drawing inspiration from her song "Cardigan."
As fans eagerly await the resumption of The Eras Tour in October, Taylor Swift remains grateful and determined to make her shows a memorable experience, while prioritizing the safety and well-being of her devoted fans.