Pop sensation Taylor Swift has finally put an end to one of the most persistent and bizarre fan theories of the year: that she secretly played the role of the bear in the new film, Happy Gilmore 2.
The 35-year-old superstar set the record straight during a surprise appearance on the New Heights podcast, hosted by her boyfriend Travis Kelce and his brother Jason Kelce, in a record-breaking episode released on August 13. When asked directly to “confirm or deny” the speculation, Swift immediately responded, “I can deny!”
The wild rumor began circulating among fans after the release of the sequel to the 1996 cult classic. It stemmed from a dream sequence where Travis Kelce’s character, a waiter, is covered in honey before being approached by a bear. Social media fueled the theory after Netflix’s accounts teasingly responded to fan comments suggesting Swift might be inside the costume.
Swift dismissed the notion with a laugh, revealing that the theory had become a running joke between her and Travis. “This is one of those ones where, like, we’ll send it to each other and be like, ‘Hey, did you hear I was the bear in there?’” she said. “And he’s like, ‘Yeah, did you hear we bought a house in Lake Como?’ At this point, we’re just like, of course they think I’m inside of a bear costume.”
Despite the absurdity of the theory, Swift admitted that she felt “honored” by the idea, given her love for the Adam Sandler starrer. She also praised the actor who actually donned the costume, calling the performance “exquisite.” According to reports, the actor in the suit has been identified as stuntman Brandon Alan Smith.
Beyond settling the viral rumor, Swift used the high-profile platform to make a major announcement for her fans. She revealed that her 12th studio album, titled The Life of a Showgirl, is slated to release on October 3. The new album, a collaboration with producers Max Martin and Shellback, promises to feature 12 tracks inspired by her behind-the-scenes life during the Eras Tour.