Ina Garten, the beloved chef known as the Barefoot Contessa, recently shared an exciting experience she had with pop sensation Taylor Swift during a backstage after-party. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, where she graces the cover for October, Garten recounted this unforgettable concert moment.
Garten expressed her admiration for Swift, saying, “I’m crazy about Taylor Swift.” After one of Swift’s shows, the singer invited Garten and her friends to a party for the crew. Garten’s friend, Kate, suggested they join in on some beer pong fun.
As they made their way to the party, soccer star Abby Wambach, who had just celebrated winning the World Cup Championship with the American women’s national soccer team, approached Garten and said, “I’m going to be your advisor.” This playful moment harkens back to 2015 when Wambach and her team joined Swift on stage during her 1989 World Tour to celebrate their victory.
Garten admitted she wasn’t exactly a beer pong pro, claiming it was her only game ever. Wambach gave her some spirited advice: “Get the f—ing ball in the f—ing cup!” Garten laughed at the straightforward guidance, responding with a chuckle, “That’s your advice?”
In April, Garten revealed how difficult it was for her and fellow Swifties to score tickets to Swift’s Eras Tour. Unfortunately, she fell ill just before the concert, which prevented her from wearing the sparkly dress she had planned for the occasion.
For years, Garten has been a fan of Swift, and the feeling is mutual. Swift has praised Garten in the past, calling her a “magnificent woman.” Garten was also celebrated in a special issue of Food Network Magazine in November 2022, which marked the 20th anniversary of her show. In that issue, stars like Swift shared their fond memories of Garten and her impact on the culinary world.
