Fans were quick to rally against sports personality Skip Bayless after the former Undisputed host shared his blunt opinion on Taylor Swift. In the December 2 episode of The Skip Bayless Show, the 73-year-old commentator and his wife, Ernestine, discussed the pop superstar, with Bayless making it clear that he is “not a fan” of Swift.
During the conversation, Ernestine agreed with her husband’s lack of enthusiasm for Swift’s music. However, Bayless took his commentary a step further by criticizing Swift’s appearance. “Taylor Swift to me? Not hot,” Bayless said, adding, “But that’s just me. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”
The remark sparked immediate backlash from Swift’s devoted fanbase. Social media users flooded the comments section to call out Bayless for his comments, which many found disrespectful and unnecessary.
“Skip, nobody cares what you and your wife think,” one user wrote. “To each his own. Yawn-worthy.”
Another commenter added, “You don’t have to like her music, but to talk about her looks seems gross.” The sentiment was echoed by many, who felt that Bayless’s critique crossed a line.
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A third fan took the opportunity to throw some shade, saying, “I’d rather watch the Talk Tuah podcast than hear Skip and his wife’s takes on Taylor Swift,” referring to Haliey Welch’s popular program. Meanwhile, another user suggested, “Skip, I don’t think she’s reaching out to your demographic.” The fans’ responses highlighted their disapproval of Bayless’s shallow take on the 14-time Grammy winner.
While Bayless chose to criticize Swift’s appearance, his wife Ernestine offered a more balanced perspective. Although she admitted that Swift’s music wasn’t her taste, she complimented Swift’s looks, describing her as “a cute girl.”
Ernestine also noted that while she understands why people like Swift’s music, it simply wasn’t her preference.
“I know people like her,” Ernestine said, “but she’s not on my turntable.” She went on to compare Swift’s style to that of one of her favorite artists, Bonnie Raitt. “I’d rather listen to Bonnie Raitt,” she added. “That’s part of where her music came from. It’s very similar.” Ernestine’s comments were seen as more respectful, acknowledging Swift’s appeal even if it wasn’t to her own taste.
Taylor Swift is currently in the final stretch of her record-breaking Eras Tour, which has captivated audiences worldwide. Despite Bayless’s dismissive remarks, Swift continues to shine both on and off the stage, finding success in her career while supporting her NFL boyfriend, Travis Kelce, during his games.
The tour is set to conclude with consecutive shows at Vancouver’s BC Place from December 6-8, marking the end of an incredible run that has cemented Swift’s status as one of the most successful artists of her generation.
As for Skip Bayless, his latest comments are just another chapter in his history of controversial takes. Bayless abruptly left FS1 in August, with no formal sign-off on air after an episode of Undisputed.
His departure came after an eight-year stint at the network, which included a seven-year partnership with Shannon Sharpe on the popular sports debate show.
Though Bayless remains a prominent figure in sports media, his recent remarks about Taylor Swift have done little to endear him to her loyal fanbase, who were quick to defend their idol against his criticism.
