Ed Sheeran joins Taylor Swift on stage at Wembley

Taylor Swift fans erupted with excitement as Ed Sheeran made an unexpected appearance with the American popstar at Wembley Stadium. The long-time friends and collaborators were met with enthusiastic cheers from the 92,000-strong audience in London.

Swift’s surprise song set, which changes with each performance, included their collaborative tracks “Everything Has Changed” from her 2012 album “Red” and “End Game” from “Reputation.” The duo also performed an emotional acoustic version of Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” illuminated by bright green lights.

Swift praised Sheeran, calling him a “second brother” and commending his hard work, noting his frequent Wembley performances. She acknowledged his dedication despite his likely fatigue, thanking him for playing for the audience.

This appearance marks Swift’s return to London following the tragic Southport knife attacks and a foiled terror plot that led to the cancellation of three shows in Vienna. Sources close to Swift indicated that tonight’s performance was emotionally challenging due to these incidents. Many speculated Sheeran’s appearance was to support her.

Swift addressed the crowd, expressing her love for London without directly mentioning the recent tragic events, including the July 29 stabbing at a Swift-themed dance class that resulted in the deaths of three young girls. In the aftermath, Swift shared her shock and sorrow over the attack, highlighting the loss and trauma experienced by the victims’ families and responders.

Following the Southport tragedy, Swift also canceled three Vienna shows due to a foiled ISIS terror plot. Insiders described her as horrified by the attempted attack. Despite recent turmoil, Swift’s return to the London stage was met with enthusiastic cheers as she commenced her three-hour show with multiple outfit changes.

Famous faces, including Idris Elba and Amelia Dimoldenberg, attended the event. Elba expressed his excitement, revealing “London Boy” as his favourite song. During the concert, Taylor Swift performed “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince,” dedicating a heartfelt message to the audience, who welcomed her warmly.

Swift also wore a t-shirt reading “a lot going on at the moment” during her “Red” era segment, a detail often noted by fans. She gave her hat to a young fan during “22,” embracing the girl briefly.

Heightened security measures were evident, with a ring of steel around Wembley Stadium and numerous security personnel on guard. The Met Police assured the public of their preparedness, implementing additional ticket checks and prohibiting non-ticket holders from congregating outside the stadium.

Fans expressed relief at the increased security, despite some lingering concerns. Little Sophie Hutton, who had been battling cancer, attended the concert with her mother, calling it a fantastic first outing after her hospital stay.

A touching moment captured on camera showed a police officer trading friendship bracelets with a young fan, a ritual among Swifties. Idris Elba also participated, trading bracelets with student Sienna Lorenz.

Erin Robertson, a fashion designer and Project Runway winner, attended with her fiancée, wearing an outfit made of Taylor Swift-themed friendship bracelets. Four siblings traveled from different parts of the world to see Swift, eager to secure the best spot in the stadium.

Some fans faced chaos outside Wembley due to a shortage of wristbands, causing delays in entry. Security measures were tightened following the Vienna incident, with the police firm on moving unticketed fans away.

Despite these challenges, the atmosphere remained positive, with fans eagerly waiting and making friendship bracelets. Lifelong fans and newcomers alike expressed their excitement and admiration for Swift, highlighting her impact on their lives and the music industry.

Metropolitan Police assured robust preparations for Swift’s Wembley concerts, emphasizing public safety. Fans were advised on prohibited items and the ban on “tay-gating.” The shows featured various support acts, adding to the anticipation and excitement among Swifties.