Renowned Burlesque performer Dita Von Teese has showered Taylor Swift with accolades, describing their collaboration on Taylor’s “Bejeweled” video as the “best experience.” Speaking candidly on the Allison Interviews podcast with Allison Kugel, the Burlesque queen commended Swift for her professionalism and genuine kindness throughout their creative partnership.
“The best experience was Taylor,” Dita expressed. “She’s really, like, a kind girl. She knew everything about what I do.” The collaboration, showcased in Taylor Swift’s “Bejeweled” video released in 2022, features both artists seated in large Martini glasses, a visual spectacle capturing the essence of the Burlesque world. Despite expectations to remain behind the scenes, Dita shared Taylor’s desire to not just showcase her skills but to actively participate in the performance.
“She wanted to not just have me be behind the scenes teaching her to be, you know, in my glass,” Von Teese revealed. “She wanted to showcase what I do.” The visually stunning video sees both stars adorned in tasselled outfits, engaging in a captivating routine that involves stripping off a stocking and indulging in a soak within a liquid extracted from giant olives.
However, Dita’s admiration for Swift extends beyond their collaborative project, as she highlighted the singer’s exceptional work ethic and respect for the art of Burlesque. In a contrasting anecdote, Dita recounted an experience with another celebrity, Bethenny Frankel, during the 2012-2014 run of Bethenny’s talk show.
Reflecting on the incident, Dita shared, “Guess what? She didn’t show up for rehearsal!” expressing her surprise at the lack of commitment. “I was like, ‘Why am I at rehearsal? I don’t need to rehearse. I can do this blindfolded with one hand tied behind my back.’ Then we did it live on camera, and I was like, ‘You’re on your own.’” Dita Von Teese’s contrasting experiences emphasize the significance of professionalism and dedication in collaborative ventures, with Taylor Swift emerging as a standout example of a respectful and committed collaborator.
