Taylor Swift made an emotional return to the stage at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium, marking her first performance since the unexpected cancellation of her Vienna shows. Originally set to perform at the Ernst-Happel Stadium in Vienna on August 9, 10, and 11, Swift’s concerts were called off after Austrian authorities foiled a terror plot. The cancellation, a result of a planned attack by two teenagers inspired by the Islamic State, left fans and the artist in shock. However, her return to the stage in London was nothing short of triumphant.
Heartfelt Address to the Fans
Opening her show with fan favorites “Cruel Summer” and “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince,” Swift took a moment to address the 92,000-strong crowd. Her voice filled with emotion, she expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support and energy from her fans. “The way that you have chosen to welcome us… Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts. We love you so much, London,” Swift declared, her words met with deafening cheers. Acknowledging the effort her fans had put into attending the show, she added, “I know how much planning and energy and effort it took to come to these shows, and I really appreciate that.”
Read More: Taylor Swift set for emotional London return after terror threat
Security Concerns and Reassurances
In light of the Vienna incident, security concerns were at the forefront of many fans’ minds. London’s Metropolitan Police, along with venue security teams, worked closely to ensure the safety of everyone attending the concert. In a statement, the Met reassured concertgoers that “London plays host to a significant number of very high-profile events each year with millions of visitors having a safe and enjoyable experience.” They emphasized that there was nothing to indicate that the Vienna plot would impact the London shows. This reassurance allowed the atmosphere at Wembley to remain electric, with fans fully immersed in the experience.
Star-Studded Night with Ed Sheeran
As a surprise for her audience, Taylor Swift was joined on stage by British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran during the acoustic section of her show. The duo performed their hit collaboration “Everything Has Changed” and delighted fans further with Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud.” Swift introduced Sheeran as “like a second brother,” a testament to their long-standing friendship and musical partnership. The crowd’s reaction to Sheeran’s appearance was ecstatic, further elevating the night’s energy.
Read More: Taylor Swift’s London concerts will go on amid heightened security
The show at Wembley was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of Taylor Swift’s music, resilience, and the deep connection she shares with her fans. Over the course of three-and-a-half hours, Swift performed more than 40 songs, spanning 18 years of her illustrious career. From “Blank Space” and “Style” to “Anti-Hero” and “Shake It Off,” the setlist was a journey through her different eras, each one met with thunderous applause and sing-alongs from the audience.