Taylor Swift charmed audiences on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, revealing her favorite songs and reflecting on how her music mirrors different chapters of her life. From “All Too Well” to “Mirrorball,” the pop icon shared candid insights and even went viral with a hilarious backstage TikTok alongside Colbert
The pop icon appeared on the late-night talk show on December 10, 2025, for what quickly became one of her most endearing and candid interviews in years. When Colbert asked her to name her top five favorite songs from her own discography, Taylor playfully admitted that the task was nearly impossible. “It’s like choosing between your children,” she laughed, explaining that every song marks a different chapter of her life — a diary of emotions, growth, and self-reflection.
Still, after a few moments of hesitation, she confessed that “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” remains closest to her heart. The track, from Red (Taylor’s Version), has become more than a fan favorite — it’s a cultural touchstone. “It’s probably the song that captures me best,” she said with a smile, acknowledging how it evolved into a kind of emotional anthem for her audience.
Another song she mentioned was “Mirrorball” from Folklore, which she described as one of her most personal works. “It’s about how I’ve always wanted to reflect the light of others — but also how fragile that can feel sometimes,” she explained. The room fell quiet, as even Colbert nodded, visibly impressed by her vulnerability.
Though she didn’t manage to list all five songs, Swift emphasized that her favorites often change with time. “Sometimes it takes years to realize what a song really meant to you,” she said, hinting that her relationship with her music evolves as she grows. Colbert, ever the comedian, teased her by saying, “Well, you’ve got until May to make your list,” referencing his own upcoming departure from The Late Show.
Before the interview, Taylor and Colbert filmed a surprise TikTok backstage — and it instantly went viral. The video shows Taylor smiling in a fluffy winter coat as “Hey Stephen” (from Fearless – Taylor’s Version) plays in the background. As the camera zooms out, Colbert appears lip-syncing dramatically to the lyrics. Taylor bursts into laughter and teases him with a playful “Hey, Stephen,” creating an internet moment that fans couldn’t stop sharing.
This marked Taylor’s first Late Show appearance since 2021 — but this time, she seemed more relaxed and radiant than ever. She spoke openly about creativity, confidence, and finding peace after the whirlwind success of The Eras Tour. “I don’t feel like I have to prove anything anymore,” she said. “Now I just want to create because it makes me happy.”
Her energy that night reflected a new era — one where fame meets freedom. Taylor has reached a point in her career where she balances superstardom with maturity, channeling both into her art.
As the show wrapped, Colbert thanked her for being “the most thoughtful pop star alive,” to which Taylor responded with her signature humor: “Well, I do overthink everything.” The exchange perfectly summed up the night — a mix of wit, heart, and authenticity.
Even without completing her list, Taylor reminded the world that every song she’s written holds a piece of her story. And if “All Too Well” truly sits at the top, it’s because it represents what she does best: turning emotion into timeless art.
