Taylor Swift and Charli XCX Feud Rumors Explode Over 'Actually Romantic' Song: A Breakdown of the Drama
LOS ANGELES (Oct 3, 2025) - Taylor Swift's latest album, The Life of a Showgirl, has sparked widespread speculation about a feud with fellow pop star Charli XCX. The seventh track on the album, "Actually Romantic," has been interpreted as a diss towards XCX, but how did we get here?
Swift and XCX seemed to be on good terms last fall when Swift praised XCX's songwriting in a New York Magazine cover story. However, social media is now convinced that Swift has turned on her fellow singer. The lyrics of "Actually Romantic" appear to reference a singer who bashed Swift as a "Boring Barbie" while on cocaine and congratulated one of Swift's ex-boyfriends when he ghosted her.
Industry insiders point out that XCX had publicly criticized Swift in the past, calling her a "sellout." However, Swift's team has not commented on the feud rumors. XCX's representatives have also declined to comment.
The drama surrounding "Actually Romantic" is just the latest example of how social media can amplify and distort celebrity feuds. In an era where fans are increasingly invested in their favorite artists' personal lives, even subtle hints at diss tracks or public spats can spark widespread speculation.
"It's like a game of telephone," says music journalist and pop culture expert, Rachel Handler. "Fans pick up on these tiny details and run with them, creating this massive narrative that may not be entirely accurate."
Handler notes that the rise of social media has created a culture where celebrities are constantly under scrutiny. "The minute something is released, people start analyzing it for hidden meanings or subtext," she says.
As the feud rumors continue to swirl, fans and industry insiders alike are left wondering what's next. Will Swift and XCX address the drama publicly? Or will they let their music speak for itself?
One thing is certain: the drama surrounding "Actually Romantic" has sparked a renewed interest in Swift's latest album. The Life of a Showgirl debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, with "Actually Romantic" becoming an instant fan favorite.
In the end, it's up to fans to decide what they believe about the feud between Taylor Swift and Charli XCX. One thing is clear: the drama will continue to unfold in the coming weeks and months, and we'll be watching closely.
Background: Taylor Swift released her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, on October 1, 2025. The album features 14 tracks, including "Actually Romantic," which has sparked widespread speculation about a feud with Charli XCX.
Additional perspectives:
Music producer and songwriter, Max Martin, who worked with Swift on several tracks for The Life of a Showgirl, declined to comment on the feud rumors.
XCX's publicist released a statement saying that XCX is "focused on her music" and not commenting on the drama surrounding "Actually Romantic."
Current status: The feud rumors continue to swirl, with fans and industry insiders alike weighing in on social media. Swift and XCX have yet to address the drama publicly.
Next developments: Fans can expect more updates on the feud as it continues to unfold. In the meantime, Swift's team has announced a string of tour dates for The Life of a Showgirl, which is expected to kick off in early 2026.
*Reporting by Variety.*