In a viral moment from Netflix’s Torching 2024: A Roast of the Year, comedian Hannah Berner sparked backlash with a joke about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s relationship. The controversial quip quickly spread online, drawing criticism from fans for its perceived inappropriate tone.
Here’s what happened, the reactions it triggered, and how it ties into the ongoing public fascination with Swift and Kelce’s high-profile romance.
Hannah Berner under fire for controversial joke on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce
Comedian Hannah Berner has received backlash for a joke she made during Netflix’s Torching 2024: A Roast of the Year, referencing Taylor Swift’s relationship with NFL player Travis Kelce. In her routine, Berner joked, “Who knew, besides Travis Kelce, that you could become so popular with women by shooting loads into a billionaire?” The joke alluded to Kelce’s rising fame being attributed to his relationship with Swift, a billionaire pop icon.
The joke sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many Swift fans calling it inappropriate and objectifying. One fan referred to it as “outright vile,” accusing Berner of degrading Swift, while another criticized the joke for perpetuating sexist narratives. Some defended the joke as part of roast culture, emphasizing that comedians often make provocative statements during such events.
Critics have repeatedly claimed that Kelce benefits from his link to Swift. In December 2024, fans credited Swift’s influence for his spot at the top of the NFL Pro Bowl voting list. They argued his performance didn’t warrant the position and said her massive fanbase boosted his visibility. Meanwhile, players like Josh Allen and Jahmyr Gibbs, seen as stronger candidates, received less support.
Kelce and Swift have stayed silent on Berner’s joke. Berner sparked similar backlash before for using a derogatory term for Blake Lively. She clarified that she filmed her set before allegations against Lively’s co-star Justin Baldoni emerged (via The Hollywood Reporter).
