Taylor Swift’s ‘ME!’ Music Video Unveils Her Adorable New Third Cat

The release of Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated “ME!” music video, featuring Panic! at the Disco frontman Brendon Urie, ignited a massive online scavenger hunt among her dedicated fanbase, the Swifties. As the video premiered on April 26, 2019, Taylor Swift herself hinted at a major secret hidden within its vibrant frames. “Oh and there’s a secret in the video I’ve been keeping in for months, let’s see who can guess it,” the pop superstar teased on a YouTube chat, setting the stage for an immediate deluge of fan theories. While the video was brimming with colorful imagery and subtle nods to her past and future, one particular theory quickly rose above the rest, capturing the collective imagination of millions: Taylor Swift had welcomed a new feline family member, expanding her beloved cat brood to three.

UPDATE 4/26/19 at 10:50 a.m.: The Swifties’ keen observation skills and speculative prowess were officially validated! Taylor Swift herself took to social media to confirm the joyous news. With an adorable selfie showcasing her snuggling her newest furry companion, she posted the heartwarming caption, “And then there were three…” While the Grammy-winning artist refrained from immediately disclosing the kitten’s name or the exact timing of its arrival, her confirmation sent waves of excitement through her fanbase. It was unequivocally clear that a delightful new creature had joined her household, instantly becoming a star in its own right and eliciting countless “awws” from fans worldwide.

The “ME!” music video was a masterclass in playful revelation, inviting fans into an elaborate Easter egg hunt reminiscent of a pop culture “Ready Player One.” Before the track and video officially dropped, Taylor Swift’s enigmatic hint set her loyal followers on a mission. Among the myriad theories that emerged from the video’s kaleidoscopic narrative, the idea that Taylor had become a mother of three cats was the most compelling and widely accepted. This particular theory gained traction because her two iconic Scottish Fold cats, Olivia Benson and Meredith Grey, were not the sole felines to grace the screen; a brand-new, previously unseen kitten made a significant, scene-stealing cameo.

In a pivotal and charming scene, Taylor, then 29 years old, was presented with this adorable, unfamiliar kitten by her on-screen lover and featured artist on the track, Brendon Urie. The moment unfolded after an amusing lover’s spat conducted entirely in French at the beginning of the video. In an attempt to mend their playful disagreement, the lead vocalist of Panic! at the Disco offered Taylor a series of peace offerings. He first presented a bouquet of flowers, which she promptly rejected. Next came an engagement ring – another ‘nope’ from Taylor, though this particular rejection fueled another fan theory about a rumored past proposal from an ex-boyfriend. It was only when the tiny kitten was introduced that Taylor’s stern demeanor softened, and she graciously accepted the offering, signaling forgiveness. Notably, this new addition was not another Scottish Fold, like her “daughters” Olivia and Meredith; the kitten was a distinct and charming Siamese cat, marking a delightful diversification of her feline family.

The immediate reaction from fans on social media was overwhelming, with many hilariously suggesting the kitten was the true star and purpose of the music video. “Taylor Swift literally only released this song to announce that she got a new cat,” one fan tweeted, capturing the collective sentiment of astonishment and delight. Another eager Swiftie asked, “SO IS THIS THE SECRET??? NEW CAT????” The clues didn’t stop at the music video itself. Observant fans also pointed to a Nashville butterfly mural that Taylor had visited just hours before the video’s premiere. “So in the butterfly mural there are THREE cats. I’m taking this as another clue as well as the kitty in the #me! music video,” a fan astutely tweeted, further solidifying the theory of a new pet. This level of meticulous detail and interconnected clues showcased Taylor’s incredible ability to engage her fanbase on a deeply interactive level, turning a music video release into a nationwide puzzle.

is this her new cat!! the butterfly mural has three cats @taylorswift13 #MEOUTNOW pic.twitter.com/Iv6wCk8hAj

— annie⁷ BE LOCKDOWN (@SPRlNGTAY) April 26, 2019

If Taylor Swift doesn’t have a third cat already, she will soon. pic.twitter.com/ZeLlLfhSPT

— Alex Goldschmidt (@alexandergold) April 26, 2019

Beyond the new feline addition, the “ME!” music video was a veritable treasure trove of other pop culture references and personal nods from Taylor Swift. Fans quickly spotted a portrait of the iconic country group the Dixie Chicks prominently displayed amidst a wall of paintings depicting sunglass-wearing chicks. This subtle but significant Easter egg led to a charming exchange between the bluegrass legends and Taylor on Twitter. The Dixie Chicks immediately tweeted a simple “👀” after watching the video, to which Taylor’s enthusiastic reply — “Chicks stans never unstan” — sent fans into a frenzy. This interaction sparked widespread speculation about a potential future collaboration, demonstrating how deeply Taylor’s creative output resonates with her audience and other artists alike. These layers of meaning, from a potential new pet to surprising musical shout-outs, underscored the richness of the “ME!” video, solidifying its place as a moment of significant artistic and personal revelation for Taylor Swift and her global fanbase.

Taylor Swift’s profound affection for her cats has long been a defining aspect of her public persona, endearing her to millions. Before the arrival of her newest companion, her Scottish Fold duo, Olivia Benson and Meredith Grey, had already achieved celebrity status in their own right. Named after strong female characters from her favorite TV shows – Olivia Benson from “Law & Order: SVU” and Meredith Grey from “Grey’s Anatomy” – these cats are more than just pets; they are bona fide pop culture icons. Their adorable antics, grumpy expressions, and frequent appearances on Taylor’s social media accounts have garnered them millions of fans and even inspired their own merchandise lines. From being featured in her music videos and documentaries to making guest appearances on talk shows, Olivia and Meredith have seamlessly integrated into Taylor’s professional and personal life, becoming extensions of her brand. Their unique personalities—Olivia’s more outgoing and Meredith’s famously aloof demeanor—are frequently chronicled by Taylor, providing fans with a relatable and charming glimpse into her everyday life.

The addition of a third cat further solidifies Taylor’s identity as a devoted “cat mom.” This consistent portrayal of her genuine love for animals resonates deeply with her audience, many of whom are pet owners themselves. In an era where celebrities often curate highly polished images, Taylor’s unfiltered joy and affection for her felines offer a refreshing sense of authenticity. Her cats’ presence provides moments of levity and connection, allowing fans to feel a more personal bond with the superstar. The decision to introduce her new cat through such a prominent platform as a music video speaks volumes about the importance these pets hold in her life and creative expression. It’s a testament to how integral her furry companions have become to her narrative, a narrative that is always carefully crafted yet feels incredibly genuine.

The “ME!” music video itself was designed as a vibrant, whimsical journey, celebrating individuality and embracing self-love. Its visual storytelling, coupled with Taylor’s characteristic penchant for leaving hidden messages, made it a particularly exciting release. Beyond the feline reveal and the Dixie Chicks nod, other elements like Brendon Urie’s pastel attire and Taylor’s use of new slang (“stan”) signaled a fresh era for the artist. Each detail was meticulously placed, not just for aesthetic appeal but to foster a deeper, more engaging relationship with her audience. The communal experience of dissecting every frame, sharing theories, and ultimately confirming the “secret” amplified the excitement surrounding the single and set a playful tone for her upcoming album cycle. This interactive approach allowed fans to feel like active participants in Taylor’s creative process, strengthening their loyalty and anticipation for what was next.

The phenomenon of celebrity pets achieving their own stardom is not new, but Taylor Swift’s cats have reached an unparalleled level of fame. Their influence extends beyond mere cuteness; they have inspired countless memes, fan art, and even discussions about responsible pet ownership. By showcasing her deep bond with Olivia, Meredith, and now her newest Siamese, Taylor champions the joy and companionship that pets bring into our lives. This connection with her animals reflects a softer, more intimate side of her otherwise public persona, making her even more relatable to her vast global following. The introduction of her third cat in the “ME!” video was not just a personal announcement; it was a cultural moment, eagerly embraced by fans who cherish her warmth and authenticity. As Taylor Swift embarks on new musical adventures, her ever-expanding feline family continues to be a heartwarming and iconic part of her extraordinary journey.