Why Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift, and Other Stars Skipped the 2025 American Music Awards

29 May 2025

Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift and MGK. Getty Images

The 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs), held on May 26 at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, were marked by the conspicuous absence of several high-profile artists, including Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish. Their nonattendance sparked widespread speculation and discussion among fans and media outlets alike.

Taylor Swift, nominated in six major categories, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for her recent release "The Tortured Poets Department," was notably absent from the event. Insider sources suggest that Swift chose to skip the AMAs to avoid media attention surrounding her close friend Blake Lively. Reports indicate that Swift is feeling exhausted and eager to step away from the relentless media spotlight.

Additionally, Swift's relationship with NFL star Travis Kelce has been under intense public scrutiny. The couple has generally kept a low profile since a public incident during Super Bowl LIX, choosing to keep their relationship out of the spotlight. Swift, reportedly weary of ongoing controversies, decided to step back from the public eye, highlighting her desire for privacy and possibly a break from escalating personal and celebrity dramas.

Billie Eilish, despite winning all seven categories she was nominated for, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for "Hit Me Hard and Soft," did not attend the AMAs. Eilish is currently on her "Hit Me Hard and Soft" world tour, which began in September 2024 and is set to conclude in November 2025. At the time of the AMAs, she was performing in Europe, making it logistically challenging to attend the ceremony. Eilish accepted her awards via a pre-recorded video message, expressing gratitude to her fans.

The absence of major stars like Swift and Eilish contributed to a subdued atmosphere at the 2025 AMAs. The event, hosted by Jennifer Lopez, leaned heavily on nostalgic performances by seasoned artists such as Gwen Stefani and Janet Jackson, the latter receiving the Icon Award. However, the lack of live appearances from current chart-toppers led to criticism from fans and media, with some describing the show as lacking in energy and relevance.

The 2025 AMAs highlighted the evolving dynamics of celebrity culture, where personal well-being and professional commitments increasingly influence public appearances. As artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish prioritize personal boundaries and touring schedules, award ceremonies may need to adapt to these changing priorities to maintain their significance in the entertainment industry.