Taylor Swift released a new song titled Cancelled! on Friday, October 3, as part of her album The Life of a Showgirl. The track, which touches on themes of public backlash and personal challenges, includes the lyric,
“Did you girlboss too close to the sun?”
This line has drawn particular attention for its possible reference to singer Blake Lively and a related lawsuit involving Justin Baldoni.
Connection to Candace Owens’ Comments
The phrase
“girlboss too close to the sun”
echoes remarks made earlier this year by conservative commentator Candace Owens. Owens used similar language to describe Swift and Lively, calling them
“girl bosses who flew too close to the sun”
in relation to Blake Lively’s legal dispute with Justin Baldoni. Owens repeated this phrase in a TikTok video promoting her podcast episode, stating,
“This story is going to be remembered as ‘girl boss flew too close to the sun.’”
Billboard has contacted Taylor Swift’s representatives for a response but has not yet received comment.
Speculation Surrounding the Song’s Subject
Fans have debated which of Swift’s acquaintances the song might be about. While some initially suggested Brittany Mahomes, wife of athlete Patrick Mahomes, the similarity to Owens’ remarks has led others to believe Blake Lively is the focus. Lively is engaged in a lawsuit claiming that Justin Baldoni arranged a media campaign to damage her reputation following their work together on the film It Ends With Us. Baldoni denies these accusations, and the case is scheduled to go to trial in 2026.
Legal Developments Affecting Taylor Swift
Justin Baldoni’s legal team sought to have Taylor Swift deposed as part of the lawsuit, alleging that Lively used Swift’s influence to press Baldoni about creative decisions on the film. However, a judge rejected this request in September. Swift is, nonetheless, required to provide her text messages with Blake Lively to the court as part of the ongoing proceedings.
Implications of the Song and Lawsuit
The lyric referencing “girlboss” imagery and the timing of the track have fueled tension and speculation, illustrating the complex interplay between celebrity relationships and public controversies. As the lawsuit unfolds, the attention on Swift’s new song highlights how her music continues to reflect and influence real-life dramas. The outcome of the trial in 2026 could further clarify the connections suggested by the song and Owens’ statements, marking a significant moment for those involved.
