Taylor Swift arrived at Arrowhead Stadium for boyfriend Travis Kelce’s NFL game on Sunday under heightened security, concealed behind what appeared to be a portable bullet-resistant shield. The move has sparked speculation among fans that the increased precautions are a direct response to the recent murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
A video circulating on X showed several security guards escorting a large, black rolling partition through the stadium, concealing an individual from view. A report from TMZ published the following day identified the object as a “bullet-resistant portable shield partition” with a retail value of approximately $6,000.
On social media, users connected the unusual security measure to Kirk’s death. “Taylor walking behind a bulletproof movable wall after what happened to Charlie Kirk can’t be a coincidence…” one person commented. Another user suggested the measure was a necessary defense against potential threats, writing, “She already has many stalkers, is in a pro-gun state, & is probably getting more threats as MAGA is wanting to assassinate a famous Dem for revenge. Usually she walks casually through that area, saying hello to folks.”
Kirk, 31, was shot and killed on September 10 while speaking at an event for his American Comeback Tour at Utah Valley University. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died. In the wake of his murder, controversial comments he previously made about Swift and Kelce resurfaced.
During an August 26 episode of The Charlie Kirk Show, the commentator said he hoped marriage and having children would “conservatize” the pop star. “Taylor Swift might go from a cat lady to a JD Vance supporter, and I think we should celebrate that,” Kirk stated. He continued, “All kidding and sarcasm aside, this is something that I hope will make Taylor Swift more conservative… Reject feminism. Submit to your husband, Taylor. You’re not in charge.”