The release of Taylor Swift’s new album The Life of a Showgirl has not only excited fans but also sparked an unexpected wave of speculation online, following rumors that one of its tracks, “Actually Romantic,” contains a hidden message aimed at Charli XCX.
“Actually Romantic”: A Hidden Dedication?
Fans have been dissecting every lyric of the track, pointing out lines that seem to allude directly to Charli XCX. One verse that caught attention reads:
“I heard you call me ‘Boring Barbie’ when the coke’s got you brave.”
Another line that fueled the theories says:
“High-fived my ex and then you said you’re glad he ghosted me.”
Social media quickly erupted with speculation, suggesting that Swift might be addressing old tensions or subtle digs exchanged between the two artists in the past.
However, in a recent interview, Taylor clarified that the song “isn’t about a single person”, but rather about “realizing that someone’s been keeping tabs on you, comparing themselves to you without you even noticing — and how that can turn into a strange, one-sided dynamic.”
Charli XCX Responds — Her Way
While she hasn’t directly addressed the rumors, Charli XCX posted a short clip from the studio with a simple pink heart emoji 💗 — a post that fans immediately interpreted as a subtle response or a hint that she might be preparing her own musical comeback.
Not long after, it was confirmed that Charli is already working on a new studio album, described by her team as “anti-Brat,” referencing her critically acclaimed 2024 release Brat. This upcoming project reportedly aims to move away from the hyperpop energy of Brat and explore a more experimental, emotionally raw sound.
In past interviews, Charli expressed that she feels no pressure to top her last success:
“Brat was an incredible moment, but I want to create something that feels new — even if it means failing. I want to keep taking risks.”
Rumors, Fandoms, and Reality
Fans from both sides have been fanning the flames of the rumored “beef,” comparing lyrics from “Actually Romantic” with Charli’s “Sympathy Is a Knife” from Brat.
However, Charli previously denied that her song had anything to do with Taylor, explaining that it was inspired by her own insecurities rather than other artists.
Meanwhile, Taylor has publicly praised Charli several times, recognizing her as one of the most innovative voices in modern pop.
In the end, beyond the drama and speculation, one thing is certain: both artists are at the peak of their creative powers — Taylor with a record-breaking new album, and Charli crafting her next evolution in sound.
