Sports broadcasters Erin Andrews and Charissa Thompson commended Taylor Swift for her profound influence on the NFL, particularly in drawing young female viewers to the sport, during a special episode of the ‘New Heights’ podcast aired on November 24, 2025.
On Monday, November 24, 2025, Erin Andrews and Charissa Thompson joined Jason and Travis Kelce on their popular ‘New Heights’ podcast. The discussion centered on their personal journeys into sports broadcasting and how they aim to inspire the next generation of fans. Jason Kelce, a father of four daughters, specifically asked for advice on engaging his children with football, leading to a heartfelt conversation about Swift’s role in transforming viewership demographics. Both Andrews and Thompson shared how their own fathers sparked their love for the game, emphasizing the importance of family connections in fostering interest.
Charissa Thompson emphasized that Taylor Swift’s impact cannot be overlooked, noting that many young girls who previously had no interest in football are now tuning in because of her. She described how commercials and videos featuring Swift have created bonding moments between fathers and daughters, calling it ‘so special.’ Thompson, who credits her own father for her career, reflected on the potential long-term effects of these interactions, suggesting they could inspire future careers or deeper engagement with sports. Her comments highlighted the organic way Swift’s presence has bridged generational and gender gaps in fandom.
Erin Andrews echoed Thompson’s sentiments, and in the background, Travis Kelce expressed appreciation for the kind words about his fiancée. Jason Kelce added that hearing from dads and daughters about Swift’s involvement is one of the ‘coolest things,’ highlighting the positive feedback from families who have found common ground through football. This segment of the podcast underscored the emotional resonance of Swift’s influence, moving beyond mere statistics to personal stories of connection and shared experiences.
Taylor Swift has been a regular at Kansas City Chiefs games since her relationship with Travis Kelce began in 2023. She has attended two Super Bowls and was recently seen at the Chiefs’ overtime victory against the Indianapolis Colts on November 23, 2025. Her consistent attendance has sparked widespread discussion about her ability to attract new audiences to the league, with media coverage often focusing on her enthusiastic support from the stands. This visibility has not only boosted game ratings but also fostered a sense of inclusivity, making football more accessible to non-traditional fans.
Chiefs CEO Clark Hunt previously acknowledged Swift’s significant influence, stating in an August 2025 interview that the Chiefs’ fanbase in North America has shifted from approximately 50% male and female to 57% female since Swift started dating Kelce. Hunt praised her passion and commitment, noting that she is not a casual fan but has ‘gone all in,’ which benefits the team and the sport. He denied that her presence causes distractions, instead emphasizing the positive energy she brings to games and the broader NFL community. This corporate endorsement reinforces the tangible impact of celebrity involvement on sports economics and culture.
While Swift’s presence has been celebrated, it has also faced some criticism from those who feel it distracts from the game. Swift addressed this in her 2023 Time Magazine Person of the Year profile, stating she is simply there to support Travis and is unaware of any overexposure. The ongoing discussion underscores the evolving nature of sports fandom and the potential for celebrities to bridge gaps in viewership. As the NFL continues to adapt to changing demographics, figures like Swift may play a key role in sustaining and expanding its audience base for years to come.
