Taylor Swift’s London concerts cost $1m only in security

Taylor Swift's "The Eras Tour" concerts in London not only delighted fans but reportedly placed a significant financial strain on local authorities. According to a report by Marca, the Metropolitan Police spent over US $1 million on security arrangements for the singer's shows, a cost that escalated due to heightened safety concerns. 

Swift performed in the UK twice this year, first in June and again in August. Security expenses during her June performances were reportedly US $85,000 per night, increasing to US $125,000 per night during her August shows. This surge in costs followed threats and disruptions, including bomb plots at her concerts in Vienna, which raised the stakes for her safety. 

The report highlights the pivotal role played by Swift's mother and manager, Andrea Swift, in securing extensive safety measures for the singer. Andrea allegedly negotiated directly with government officials, demanding specialised security and a police escort, which added to the financial burden on the Metropolitan Police. Sources claim Andrea even threatened to cancel the concerts unless her demands were met, a move that reportedly pressured officials to comply due to the economic and social fallout a cancellation could have caused. 

Critics have since questioned whether Taylor Swift should reimburse some of the expenses incurred. Last year, singer Harry Styles set a precedent by repaying US $70,000 of the US $275,000 spent on security for his Wembley concert, winning praise for his gesture. 

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While the concerts boosted the local economy and thrilled fans, the hefty security costs have sparked debates over the financial responsibilities of artists versus local authorities when it comes to large-scale events. 

Swift has not publicly commented on the report.