Emma Stone joked about her friend Taylor Swift backstage at the Golden Globes, calling her an “a–hole” in January 2024 . The joke was met with backlash from Swift’s fans, and Stone has since said she will not make jokes about Swift again. In an interview with Variety, Stone said,
“I definitely won’t make a joke like that again… because I saw headlines that really pulled it out of context,” Stone told Variety. She later pointed to herself, adding, “What a dope.”
The incident occurred at a movie premiere, where Emma Stone was asked about her thoughts on Taylor Swift’s latest album. In a lighthearted attempt at humor, Emma quipped,
“I guess Taylor’s next album will be about the perils of dating in Hollywood. I hope I don’t end up in one of her songs!”
The comment, intended as a jest, quickly gained traction on social media, with fans of both actresses engaging in heated discussions. However, it was Taylor Swift‘s response that caught everyone off guard. Instead of dismissing it with a laugh, Taylor addressed the comment in a heartfelt Tumblr post, expressing her disappointment in Emma’s choice of words.
As Stone clinched the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical for her role in Poor Things, Swift could be spotted applauding and cheering wholeheartedly with genuine enthusiasm.
“What an a–hole,” Stone joked with reporters backstage. “I’ve known her for almost 20 years. I was very happy she was there and she was also nominated tonight, which was wonderful. And yes, what an a–hole.”
Realizing the impact of her offhand remark, Emma Stone swiftly apologized to Taylor Swift. In her statement, she acknowledged the importance of choosing words carefully in the public eye and expressed regret for any hurt feelings she may have caused.
Swift and Stone forged their friendship in 2008 at the Young Hollywood Awards, and their bond has endured through the years. They have graced numerous events side by side, and in a show of solidarity, Swift stood by Stone at the New York premiere of Poor Things in December 2023.
The incident served as a wake-up call for Emma Stone, prompting her to reflect on the weight that celebrity words carry. Social media magnifies every statement. It makes the line between harmless banter and potential controversy finer. Emma, known for her amicable relationships in the industry, learned that even the closest friendships can be strained by a poorly chosen comment.
Afterward, Emma Stone and Taylor Swift reconciled privately. They emphasized the strength of their bond, built on years of genuine friendship. However, the incident left a lasting impression on Emma. It made her an advocate for more thoughtful communication in the celebrity world.
