Taylor Swift Gunning for First Oscar Nomination With Steven Spielberg’s Help at Upcoming Gala

Taylor Swift has her sights set on Hollywood’s biggest prize, and Steven Spielberg could play a key role in helping her land her first Oscar.

Sources told Rob Shuter‘s Naughty But Nice Substack that the singer, 36, is determined to secure an Academy Award for her Toy Story 5 song, “I Knew It, I Knew You,” after already conquering the music industry.

“Taylor has Grammys, sold-out stadiums and billions of dollars. But there’s one thing missing from her trophy cabinet — an Oscar,” an industry source told Shuter. “And she wants one badly.”

According to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures’ official website, Swift is scheduled to perform at its annual gala on Saturday, October 17, which is chaired by Spielberg and his wife, Kate Capshaw.

According to Shuter’s source, the high-profile appearance could provide Swift with an opportunity to make an impression on Hollywood’s biggest names.

“Steven opens doors that even Taylor can’t open herself,” the source claimed. “This isn’t just another performance. It’s a chance to impress the people who actually vote for Oscars.”

However, Swift’s Hollywood ambitions could come at the expense of another important appearance.

According to the Kansas City Chiefs’ official NFL schedule, her husband Travis Kelce is set to take the field against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, October 18, just one day after the gala.

While Swift has frequently supported Kelce, 37, at his NFL games, Shuter reported that her commitments in Los Angeles could make attending the matchup unlikely.

“Taylor loves cheering for Travis, but this weekend is about Taylor,” the source said. “He has his career. She has hers. And right now, hers involves winning an Oscar.”

According to Shuter’s source, the gala performance is about more than simply entertaining the audience.

“Taylor isn’t going to this gala just to sing,” the source continued. “She’s going to make sure Hollywood takes her seriously.”

Despite her enormous success in music, Swift has never received an Academy Award nomination.

Swift’s potential bid for recognition in the Best Original Song category would mark another major milestone in her career. Nominations for the upcoming ceremony will take place on January 21, 2027.