Taylor Swift faced criticism from fans and social media users for being 'disrespectful' and 'rude' to Celine Dion at the 66th Grammy Awards on Sunday night.
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The pop star, who won Album of the Year for her 2022 release Midnights, seemed to ignore Dion as she handed her the trophy on stage at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Dion, who suffers from stiff-person syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that causes muscle spasms and stiffness, made a surprise appearance at the ceremony to present the prestigious award, which she herself won in 1997 for Falling Into You.
Swift, 34, became the first person in history to win Album of the Year four times, following her previous wins for Fearless (2010), 1989 (2016), and Folklore (2021).
However, instead of thanking or acknowledging Dion, 55, for her achievement and contribution to the music industry, Swift turned away from her and hugged her collaborators Jack Antonoff and Aaron Dessner, who co-produced Midnights with her.
Fans and viewers took to Twitter and Instagram to express their disappointment and anger at Swift's apparent snub, calling her 'ungrateful', 'arrogant', and 'insensitive'.
One user wrote: "How can Taylor Swift be so disrespectful to Celine Dion? She is a legend and an inspiration to millions of people. She deserves better than being ignored by a spoiled brat."
Another commented: "Taylor Swift should be ashamed of herself. Celine Dion is battling a serious illness and still showed up to honor her. The least she could do is look at her and say thank you."
Some defended Swift, saying that she was caught up in the moment and did not mean to offend Dion. They also pointed out that the two singers posed together backstage and seemed to have a friendly rapport.
A fan tweeted: "Taylor Swift did not snub Celine Dion. She was just overwhelmed and excited. She loves and respects Celine Dion. They hugged and smiled backstage. Stop spreading hate and negativity."
Another said: "Taylor Swift and Celine Dion are both amazing artists and women. They have nothing but admiration and support for each other. Don't try to create drama where there is none."
Swift has not addressed the controversy yet, but she did thank her fans and fellow nominees in her acceptance speech, saying that Midnights was "a very personal album" that helped her cope with the pandemic and the challenges of life.
Dion, who has been on hiatus from performing since 2020 due to her health issues, also praised Swift and the other nominees, saying that they "made us feel and heal through the power of music".
