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Ina Garten has been quite vocal about her admiration for Taylor Swift over the years, and it’s clear that the feeling is mutual.
In her recent cover story with WSJ. Magazine, which was shared on Instagram on Wednesday, September 26, Garten shared her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m crazy about Taylor Swift.” She recounted a memorable experience when Swift, 34, graciously invited her to an after party for the crew of the show following a performance — an event believed to be associated with Swift’s 1989 tour back in 2015.
“After the show she invited us to go to a party that she gave to all of the crew,” the Barefoot Contesssa host, 76, revealed. Garten mentioned how during the festivities, she found herself playing beer pong –where she received some unexpected guidance from soccer legend Abby Wambach, fresh off her World Cup triumph.
Ina Garten speaks onstage during the 28th Annual Webby Awards at Cipriani Wall Street on May 13, 2024 in New York City. The professional cook recently shared some details about one of Swift’s parties after her concert.
Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images for The Webby Awards
Wambach, 44, playfully declared, “I’m gonna be your advisor,” to which Garten eagerly asked for advice.
“Get the f***ing *** ball in the f***ing *** cup,” Wambach replied, leaving Garten amused and slightly bewildered.
“And I said, ‘That’s your advice?'” The celebrity chef quipped.
Fans of the cook and pop star alike loved hearing this anecdote, with one fan commenting, “This post cleared my skin and cured my depression. We love you Ina!!! 🙌” while another noted, “Just when I think I can’t possible love Ina any more, she drops some f bombs. 😂.”
However, many of Garten’s fans were not happy with her word choice. “Saying that was Not funny!!!” said one. Another declared, “I’m so sorry she felt the need to share this …. kinda just lost a lot of respect.”
Garten’s admiration for Swift – and vice versa – has been constant throughout the years. In a sweet birthday tribute in December 2021, she celebrated Swift’s creativity, writing, “Happy Birthday to one of the most creative artistic geniuses of our time! You are such an inspiration for anyone who wants to sail their own ship. Sending love. @taylorswift.” She also shared another birthday tribute on Instagram in 2019 for the 14-time Grammy winner as well.
Swift also had some kind words for Garten, who graced the November 2022 cover of Food Network Magazine to celebrate the 20th anniversary of her show. Inside the issue, Garten’s celebrity friends share their favorite memories of her, including Swift, who referred to the beloved chef as a “magnificent woman.” Swift continued, “My most potent memories of Ina come from when I first discovered her TV show. I was in my teens, and my life revolved around touring. On my rare days off at home, I barely ever cooked because it had always felt like a chore.”
In 2022, Garten shared the story behind their friendship during an appearance on the Today show, revealing that their bond began during a cooking photo shoot. “I did a photo shoot with Taylor and we cooked together, and I so fell in love with her.”