During Grammys week, wedged somewhere between Miley Cyrus’ incredible performance of her Grammy-winning song “Flowers” and Dua Lipa’s Courrèges chainmail gown, social media users were posting the moment Taylor Swift accepted the Grammy for Album Of The Year—and allegedly snubbed Celine Dion in the process.
Dion, 55, has been battling stiff-person syndrome, a rare and incurable neurological disorder that causes muscle stiffness and painful spasms and subsequently saw the powerhouse singer cancel her North American tour last year. Dion’s appearance at the Grammys was the first time the world has seen her since news of her diagnosis, and she took to the stage to say hello and to present the Album Of The Year category.
“When I say that I’m happy to be here, I really mean it from my heart,” Dion began. “Those who have been blessed enough to be here at the Grammy awards must never take for granted the tremendous love and joy that music brings to our lives and to people all around the world.”
When the icon announced Taylor Swift as the night’s big winner, Swift took to the stage and, in her excitement, didn’t acknowledge Dion at all—a move which set the internet alight. Take a look at the moment below.
Conversely, when Cyrus accepted the award from Mariah Carey, she asked Carey to stand next to her and repeatedly spoke of how much she admired her.
In a bid to quieten the online uproar, Swift was quick to post a photo of herself backstage with Dion. But was it enough?
According to Dion, via Page Six, yes. The icon achieved what she wanted — to show everyone that she’s back.
“I don’t think Celine cared and they talked backstage afterwards. But Céline was just gracious and happy to be there,” an insider told the publication. “Of course, the right thing would have been for Taylor to acknowledge her, like Adele did years ago.”
“She wanted to show everyone that she’s doing alright,” the insider continued. “She has good days and bad days … it’s a painful disease, but it’s not a death sentence. She’s clearly capable of doing things and she wanted to show everyone that she’s back. She looked fantastic. The hope is that she will be able to perform.”
