Travis Kelce is well aware that his relationship with global superstar Taylor Swift has elevated his public profile to new heights. Embracing the increased attention, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end doesn’t seem to mind being known as Swift’s “arm candy” in the eyes of the world. In fact, Kelce, 34, seems to be enjoying the ride.
“It’s the life I chose, I guess. I have fun with it,” Kelce said with a laugh during an appearance on CBS Mornings Thursday, while promoting his latest Pepsi ad featuring Megan Thee Stallion. The commercial is a remake of the iconic 2004 Pepsi spot starring Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Pink, and Enrique Iglesias. Kelce acknowledged that being in the spotlight is part of the trade-off when it comes to his burgeoning fame, especially now that he’s involved in high-profile sponsorships and endorsements.
Though Kelce has had an illustrious NFL career, winning three Super Bowl titles and even hosting Saturday Night Live, he admitted early on in his relationship with Swift that her influence introduced him to a new level of fame. “She put me on the map,” he said, acknowledging that many people around the world got to know him primarily through his connection to Swift, despite his own impressive accomplishments.
During the CBS Mornings interview, Kelce was also asked how his family is handling his newfound fame. “Everybody’s loving it,” he said, noting that his mother, Donna Kelce, has been particularly enjoying the attention. “Mama Kelce—she’s having so much fun,” he shared, adding that his dad, Ed Kelce, is slowly adjusting to the spotlight as well. As for his brother, Jason Kelce, who plays for the Philadelphia Eagles, Travis pointed out that Jason has always been comfortable with fame and “a pro at it.”
While Travis seems to be taking his new life in stride, his older brother Jason has occasionally offered a more grounded perspective.
On Shaquille O’Neal’s The Big Podcast with Shaq, Jason revealed that Travis had to relocate due to the intensity of the media and fan attention surrounding his relationship with Swift. “People were just staying by his house,” Jason said, explaining that Travis moved to a new home in a gated community. However, even after the move, the attention didn’t fully subside. “The first day he moved into the new house, somebody knocks on the back window of the house,” Jason shared, highlighting the difficulties that come with fame on such a grand scale.
Despite the occasional challenges, Travis’ family has always supported him and praised his ability to navigate the pressures that come with his celebrity status.
In November 2023, Donna Kelce spoke about how her son was “embracing” the limelight as much as possible, noting that he enjoys being in the center of attention. “He likes attention,” Donna said, recognizing that her son’s natural charisma helps him manage life in the public eye.
As Travis continues to enjoy both his NFL career and the spotlight that comes with being Taylor Swift’s partner, he remains unfazed by the scrutiny.
Whether on the field or off, he’s making the most of his fame and the opportunities it presents, all while keeping his sense of humor about it. For Kelce, it seems being in the spotlight isn’t a burden—it’s just another part of the fun.
