Denise Welch Overwhelmed After Backlash on Taylor Swift Comments

Denise Welch appeared visibly emotional in West Hollywood after facing backlash for comments made about Taylor Swift during a recent television interview. The 67-year-old star of “Loose Women” was seen being consoled by her son, Matty Healy, 36, as she dabbed her eyes with a tissue outside a restaurant. This incident unfolded on August 2, 2025, shortly after Welch’s remarks drew criticism from Swift’s devoted fanbase.

The controversy began when Welch discussed Swift on Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live.” During the segment, she made a comment regarding Swift’s tendency to write songs about her former relationships. Welch’s remarks about her son’s ex-girlfriend were perceived as a subtle jab, resulting in backlash from Swift’s fans, who labeled her comments as “obnoxious.”

Witnesses reported that Welch struggled to contain her emotions while sitting on the pavement outside Stella restaurant, where she was joined by Healy and his fiancée, Gabbriette Bechtel. Sources close to the family indicated that Welch’s distress was linked to a “family matter,” according to TMZ, though the specifics remain undisclosed.

Despite the emotional scene, the singer-songwriter Swift is reportedly choosing to “take the high road” following Welch’s comments. An insider stated that while Swift finds Welch’s remarks “a bit obnoxious,” she is not planning to retaliate or make a public statement regarding the situation. Instead, she intends to focus on her ongoing success and personal life, including her recent relationship with NFL player Travis Kelce.

During the interview that sparked the controversy, Welch humorously claimed, “Obviously, on pain of death can I talk about that episode, but being her mother-in-law is a role that I am glad I lost.” Her comments elicited gasps from the audience, leading her to clarify that she harbors no ill feelings towards Swift, emphasizing, “Not that I have anything against [Taylor] at all! It was just – it was tricky.”

As a prominent figure in British television, Welch’s remarks have drawn significant attention, particularly given the public interest in Swift’s personal life. The two have been linked through Healy, who briefly dated Swift in 2023 following her split from actor Joe Alwyn. Their relationship was short-lived, concluding amid criticism directed at Healy for some of his past comments.

Welch’s emotional display in West Hollywood reflects the intense scrutiny that comes with public life, particularly when family dynamics involve high-profile figures. As she navigates the fallout from her comments, the support from her son Matty appears to be vital. The pair’s close bond was evident as they engaged in deep conversation and embraced before heading inside the restaurant.

While the situation has caused Welch distress, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of family relationships in the spotlight and the often volatile nature of celebrity interactions. As Swift continues her successful career, including her record-breaking “Eras Tour,” Welch’s experience highlights the challenges that come with public commentary on personal matters.