Taylor Swift, the global music icon, is known for her chart-topping hits and captivating performances, but beyond the spotlight, she’s also a devoted cat lover. Her feline companions, Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button, are not just pets; they’re integral members of her family and have become celebrities in their own right. Let’s delve into the world of Taylor Swift’s cats and discover the stories behind their distinctive names.
Taylor Swift and Olivia Benson are seen in Soho on September 16, 2014 in New York City.Taylor Swift and her Scottish Fold cat, Olivia Benson, strolling in New York City in 2014.
Meredith Grey: The Original Feline Star
Meredith Grey, the eldest of Taylor’s cat trio, joined the Swift household in 2011. This elegant Scottish Fold cat is named after the iconic character from the hit medical drama “Grey’s Anatomy,” portrayed by Ellen Pompeo. Scottish Folds are known for their distinctive folded ears, a genetic mutation that gives them an endearing, perpetually surprised expression. Beyond her unique appearance, Meredith embodies the breed’s typical traits: she’s sweet-natured, adaptable, and moderately playful.
Meredith has been a constant presence in Taylor’s life and career, frequently gracing her social media feeds. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taylor playfully highlighted Meredith’s natural inclination for solitude, captioning a photo, “For Meredith, self-quarantining is a way of life. Be like Meredith.” This humorous take resonated with fans worldwide. Meredith’s star power extends beyond social media; she even boasts an IMDB page and made a cameo appearance in Taylor Swift’s music video for “ME!”, alongside her feline siblings.
Olivia Benson: From TV Drama to Real-Life Glamour
In 2014, Taylor welcomed Olivia Benson, another charming Scottish Fold, into her home. Olivia’s name pays homage to Mariska Hargitay’s strong and compassionate character, Detective Olivia Benson, from the long-running crime drama “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” This name choice reflects Taylor’s appreciation for strong female characters in popular culture.
Like Meredith, Olivia possesses the gentle and affectionate nature characteristic of Scottish Folds. She has grown into a true celebrity cat, starring in commercials, accompanying Taylor on public outings, and even reportedly amassing a staggering net worth through endorsements and appearances. The real Olivia Benson, Mariska Hargitay, reciprocated the feline tribute by naming her own cat Karma, after Taylor Swift’s song “Karma,” showcasing the mutual admiration between the star and the actress.
Benjamin Button: The Unexpected Music Video Star
Benjamin Button, the youngest member of Taylor’s cat family, is a Ragdoll breed, known for their striking blue eyes, semi-longhaired coat, and docile temperament. His name is inspired by Brad Pitt’s titular character in the film “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.” Ragdolls are known for being incredibly relaxed and people-oriented, often described as “puppy-like” in their behavior, which perfectly aligns with Benjamin’s charming personality as described by Taylor.
The story of how Benjamin joined Taylor’s life is particularly heartwarming. She first encountered him on the set of her “ME!” music video. In a behind-the-scenes clip, Taylor is instantly smitten with the kitten, captivated by his affectionate purring and gentle demeanor. “Can I have him?” she asks, clearly charmed. Upon learning he was available for adoption, her joy is palpable. Benjamin’s blue eyes, mirroring Taylor’s own, were even jokingly pointed out as a sign of destiny by Brendon Urie, further solidifying Benjamin’s place in Taylor’s heart and home.
A Purrfectly Famous Trio
Taylor Swift’s cats have become more than just celebrity pets; they’re beloved figures in popular culture. Their names, inspired by strong fictional characters, reflect Taylor’s own interests and personality. Meredith, Olivia, and Benjamin each bring their unique charm to Taylor’s life and social media, delighting fans worldwide with their adorable antics and cementing their status as true feline stars. Through her cats, Taylor Swift shares a glimpse into her personal life, revealing her warmth, humor, and deep affection for her furry companions, further endearing her to fans around the globe.
