Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended Taylor Swift’s concert in Toronto on Friday, marking the second-to-last night of the singer’s Eras Tour in the city. Trudeau, accompanied by family members, enjoyed the performance at the Rogers Centre as part of the highly anticipated Canadian leg of the tour.
Swift’s Eras Tour, which began in March 2023, has traveled across five continents with nearly 150 shows. It will wrap up its Canadian dates this weekend, with the final stop in Vancouver from December 6 to 8.
Before the tour’s Canadian dates were confirmed, Trudeau had publicly reached out to Swift on social media, urging her to bring the tour to Canada. In a post from July 2023, he referenced Swift’s song “Cruel Summer,” saying, “It’s me, hi. I know places in Canada would love to have you.” He also welcomed Swift to Canada via a social media message on the first night of her Toronto performances.
It’s me, hi. I know places in Canada would love to have you. So, don’t make it another cruel summer. We hope to see you soon.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 6, 2023
However, Trudeau’s attendance at the concert sparked a backlash on social media, with many criticizing his public appearance amid ongoing protests in Montreal. On the same evening, violent clashes erupted in Montreal between anti-Israel, pro-Palestinian activists and police, resulting in property damage and arrests. Videos from the scene showed protesters chanting slogans and engaging in destructive behavior.
Riots have broken out in Montreal – the mob is smashing buildings and rampaging through the streets.
And where is Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau? Dancing at a Taylor Swift concert. pic.twitter.com/aviemasUDc
— Aviva Klompas (@AvivaKlompas) November 23, 2024
In contrast, a viral video from the Toronto concert showed Trudeau dancing and enjoying Swift’s performance. The footage quickly drew criticism, with some users mocking the Prime Minister for appearing out of touch while protests and unrest unfolded across the country. One social media user expressed frustration, saying, “Imagine thousands of homeless people are 100 to 150 metres away from where he is dancing!”
While montreal burns.
— Daniel Carter (@dacarter68) November 23, 2024
Trudeau had previously made headlines when he called on Swift to extend the tour after she added new European dates, emphasizing Canada’s desire to see the superstar perform. The Prime Minister’s critics, however, questioned the optics of his concert attendance amid the escalating situation in Montreal.
We’re ready for you, @taylorswift13. Good choice wrapping the Eras Tour in Canada.
Has this always been your endgame? #TorontoVancouver
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 14, 2024
