Director Shawn Levy recently reflected fondly on his experience starring in Taylor Swift’s acclaimed short film for her song “All Too Well.” Levy called the music icon a positive role model and creative genius.
Levy played Swift’s father in the 14-minute video for “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” off her album Red. He acted opposite Sadie Sink as a young Swift and Dylan O’Brien as her boyfriend.
Levy said his four daughters, ages 12 to 24, all share Swift as their only common idol. So starring in her video gave him “dad cred for life,” in his words.
He brought his real-life daughters to be extras in the production. Levy said it was a fun experience, as he had previously directed Sink and O’Brien.
Throughout his career, Levy’s projects have aligned with his daughters’ stages of growth. He’s gone from family comedies to edgier, coming-of-age fare as they’ve matured.
Beyond acting together, Levy also recently attended a Chiefs football game with Swift and friends including Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively and Sophie Turner.
He admitted he’s never witnessed anything like the frenzy surrounding Swift. But as the father of four girls, he’s glad they look up to her.
“She’s a good role model,” Levy stated. “And most importantly, that woman wrote all of those songs herself. This is a true generational creative genius. She a force — and she’s also a really fun hang.”
Levy praised Swift’s authentic artistry and relatability. Despite her global fame, she connects with fans of all ages through personal songwriting.
By highlighting Swift’s talent and character, Levy counters critics who dismiss pop stars as poor examples for young people. He argues Swift deserves respect for her musical skills and integrity.
Levy’s firsthand experience working with Swift reinforces her reputation as a kind, down-to-earth person beyond the glitz. Their natural mentor-mentee dynamic in the music video extended into real life.
For Levy, watching his daughters grow up with Swift as the soundtrack makes her impact feel more profound. He voiced what so many parents think about the pop star’s presence in fans’ lives.
The veteran director’s seal of approval carries weight given his success nurturing young talent like Millie Bobby Brown. His praise for Swift as a role model and inspiration is powerful common ground for their overlapping fanbases.
By speaking out, Levy lends his credibility to legitimizing Swift as an icon generations of girls and women have every right to emulate. His comments substantiate her positive influence.
