Denise Welch, mother of Matty Healy—former partner of recording artist Taylor Swift—made remarks referencing Ms. Swift during an appearance on Bravo TV’s Watch What Happens Live on Thursday.
Ms. Welch, a 67-year-old English actress and television presenter, participated in the episode following a prior interaction with host Andy Cohen on Loose Women, during which Mr. Cohen extended an invitation for her to appear on the program.
In the course of the interview, Ms. Welch responded with measured caution when Mr. Cohen inquired about her reaction to the release of Ms. Swift’s 2024 studio album, The Tortured Poets Department, which debuted following the singer’s public relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end, Mr. Travis Kelce.
Public speculation has suggested that Ms. Swift, age 35—whose discography frequently incorporates themes drawn from personal relationships—may have composed multiple tracks on the aforementioned album in reference to her brief romantic involvement with Mr. Healy.
During the interview, Ms. Welch appeared to suggest that Taylor Swift’s fanbase exhibits a pattern of aggressively responding to individuals who express criticism of the artist, notwithstanding Ms. Swift’s own public references to former partners in her commercially successful music.
When prompted by Mr. Cohen to comment on her reaction to the Tortured Poets Department album, Ms. Welch responded: “Obviously, on pain of death can I talk about that episode, but being her mother-in-law is a role that I am glad that I lost.”
The remark drew audible expressions of surprise from audience members. Ms. Welch then attempted to moderate the reaction and mitigate the potential controversy arising from her statement.
In an effort to temper audience reaction, Ms. Welch firmly stated, “Not that I have anything against her at all,” in reference to Ms. Swift. She continued by acknowledging the situation had been “tricky,” before pausing briefly and proceeding with additional commentary.
Ms. Welch appeared to imply that Ms. Swift’s fanbase tends to actively monitor and challenge any public statements deemed critical of the artist, while Ms. Swift herself retains the liberty to address such matters through her music.
“She — listen, you’re not allowed to say anything, and then she writes a whole album about it,” Ms. Welch asserted.
Nonetheless, she emphasized that her son, Mr. Matty Healy—lead vocalist of The 1975—is handling the public and media response to Ms. Swift’s album The Tortured Poets Department with “completely good grace.”
Ms. Welch further noted that Mr. Healy is presently in a positive personal relationship with his fiancée, Gabriella (professionally known as Gabbriette), whom she described as “amazing” and “gorgeous.” She concluded by stating, “So, we’ve moved on,” which was met with applause from the studio audience.#newsafro_
