Taylor Swift ‘Charmed’ Hollywood’s Biggest Stars at Academy Gala in Bid for First Oscar

Taylor Swift may have taken a major step toward landing her first Oscar after reportedly winning over some of Hollywood’s biggest names at the Academy Museum Gala.

The pop superstar, 36, performed at the star-studded event in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 17, with A-list guests including Steven Spielberg, Charlize Theron and Colman Domingo reportedly eager to meet her.

“These people have Oscars, millions of dollars and enormous power,” one source told Rob Shuter‘s Naughty But Nice Substack on Monday, October 19. “They’re impossible to impress. But Taylor walked into that room, and suddenly everyone was desperate to meet her!”

Swift performed her original Toy Story 5 song, “I Knew It, I Knew You,” alongside some of her biggest hits, including “Blank Space” and “Love Story.”

However, according to Shuter’s insiders, it was her behavior offstage that made the biggest impression.

“Taylor worked that room like a master politician,” a Hollywood insider claimed. “She was gracious, charming and made everyone feel special. By the end of the night, Hollywood was eating out of her hand!”

Sources also claimed Swift insisted on purchasing her own ticket to the prestigious event and performing without payment.

“She didn’t demand a paycheck or special treatment,” another insider told Shuter. “She understood the value of being there. That kind of class wins people over.”

The claims come after Star previously reported that Swift was hoping to secure her first Academy Award nomination with the help of Spielberg, who co-chaired the gala alongside his wife, Kate Capshaw, Tom Ford and Robert Rodriguez.

The singer is hoping to enter the Best Original Song race with her contribution to Toy Story 5, having never previously received an Oscar nomination despite her numerous Grammy wins.

According to Shuter’s latest report, her appearance at the gala could prove particularly valuable as Hollywood’s awards season approaches.

“Oscar campaigns are about goodwill,” a separate source explained. “Taylor just charmed the very people who could help make her an Academy Award winner!”

Swift’s performance was also a major moment for the annual fundraiser, which raised more than $14 million, according to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures’ official website. The evening honored Theron, Domingo and filmmaker John Carpenter, while comedian Conan O’Brien introduced Swift’s performance.