Entertainment3 min(s) read
Cillian Murphy called out by viewers for savage reaction to Taylor Swift talking about Travis Kelce engagement
Cillian Murphy has once again become the internet’s favorite meme after his seemingly disinterested expression during Taylor Swift’s recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show went viral.
The Oscar-winning actor, 47, joined the pop superstar, 35, on the BBC chat show’s celebrity panel on Friday night, where both were promoting new projects.
Swift was there to discuss her upcoming album The Life of a Showgirl (which has already caused some controversy) while Murphy appeared to promote his new film Steve, a drama centered on a headteacher struggling to maintain control of his students while grappling with his own mental health challenges.
While the conversation soon turned to Swift’s engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce, social media quickly lit up with posts about Murphy’s reaction, or lack thereof.
As the singer displayed her dazzling diamond ring, viewers couldn’t help but notice Murphy’s signature stoic expression, joking online that he looked “mentally elsewhere.”
A familiar expression fans love
Murphy’s neutral demeanor has become something of a running joke among fans.
The Irish actor has previously been caught on camera with the same subdued expression at high-profile events, including the 2024 Golden Globes, where he won Best Actor in a Motion Picture: Drama for Oppenheimer.
Despite taking home one of the night’s biggest awards, fans noted that Murphy appeared as calm and unbothered as ever; a contrast to the glitzy energy around him.
At the time, social media dubbed him the “winner of the IDGAF war,” praising his relatable indifference amid Hollywood fanfare.
Clips and stills of his barely-there smile became viral memes, earning him a cult following for his quiet confidence and unshakable composure.
Friday’s talk show appearance was no different.
As Taylor Swift chatted enthusiastically about her engagement and future wedding plans, Murphy maintained his characteristic poker face, prompting fans to joke that he was “performing mental gymnastics” to make it through the conversation.
A genuine connection behind the scenes
Despite the playful online teasing, Murphy and Swift appear to have a friendly rapport.
During the episode, Swift fondly recalled spending time with Murphy and his family at a past Oscars party, describing his teenage sons as “polite, engaging, and curious.”
Murphy, smiling slightly, shared that he hadn’t expected his children to attend the event but was pleased that they made an impression.
When Swift noticed Murphy’s son Aran, 17, in the audience, she pointed him out, calling him “the future of our world”, drawing laughter from both Murphy and host Graham Norton.
Whether he’s collecting Oscars or enduring pop star small talk, Cillian Murphy’s effortlessly unbothered presence continues to charm fans; proving once again that sometimes, less expression says it all.