Taylor Swift released the music video for "Opalite," the second single from her 12th studio album "The Life of a Showgirl," on Friday, February 6, 2026. The video debuted exclusively on Spotify Premium and Apple Music at 8 a.m. ET. It features a host of celebrity cameos and a '90s-inspired theme.
The release follows the album's launch in October 2025. "Opalite" marks the second visual from the project, after "The Fate of Ophelia." Swift directed the video herself, showcasing her creative control.
Fans have reacted enthusiastically to the video's playful elements and unexpected guest appearances. The release aligns with Swift's strategy of timed exclusives on paid platforms before wider availability.
What Is the 'Opalite' Music Video About?
The "Opalite" music video adopts a retro '90s aesthetic. It opens with a mock advertisement for an "Opalite" cleaning spray that promises to "magically transform your problems into your paradise."
Swift portrays a character in a lackluster relationship with a literal pet rock. They engage in activities like making friendship bracelets, singing karaoke, and visiting bars. The narrative shifts when Swift discovers the Opalite spray, leading to a romantic encounter with actor Domhnall Gleeson.
Gleeson appears in a parallel storyline, dealing with an "abusive" relationship with a cactus. After using the spray, the pair embarks on a whimsical adventure, culminating in a dance sequence in matching blue sequined jumpsuits.
The video ends with a reveal: all participants are guests from Swift's October 2025 appearance on "The Graham Norton Show." This ties into the video's origin, emphasizing collaboration.
Swift debuts brown hair in the video, a departure from her signature blonde look. The production was shot on film, enhancing its nostalgic feel.
Celebrity Cameos in 'Opalite'
The video boasts an impressive lineup of celebrities, many from Swift's "Graham Norton Show" episode. Domhnall Gleeson stars as Swift's love interest, sharing romantic and dance scenes.
Greta Lee appears as a singer-songwriter on MTV. Jodie Turner-Smith hosts an exercise show. Lewis Capaldi plays a mall photographer.
Cillian Murphy makes a surprise cameo in a billboard ad for the Opalite spray. Host Graham Norton portrays a seller of the product.
Kameron Saunders, a dancer from Swift's Eras Tour, appears as a judge scoring the final dance performance. The cameos add humor and star power to the surreal storyline.
The Unexpected Origin Story
The concept for the "Opalite" music video stemmed from Swift's guest spot on "The Graham Norton Show" in October 2025. During the episode, Domhnall Gleeson joked about wanting to appear in one of her videos.
Swift shared the story in a post on X: "I remember thinking I got ridiculously lucky with the group I was paired with... When we were all talking during the broadcast, Domhnall made a light-hearted joke about wanting to be in one of my music videos. He’s Irish! He was joking! Except that in that moment... I was instantly struck with an idea."
She emailed Gleeson a script a week later, inviting the entire panel to participate. Swift described it as "a school group project but for adults and it isn’t mandatory." All agreed, resulting in the collaborative video.
This origin highlights Swift's spontaneous creativity and ability to leverage personal connections for her projects.
How to Watch the 'Opalite' Music Video
Viewers can stream the "Opalite" music video on Spotify Premium or Apple Music, both subscription-based services. Spotify Premium costs $12.99 per month after a free two-month trial. Apple Music offers a three-month free trial, with plans starting at $10.99 per month.
The video will become available on YouTube on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 8 a.m. ET. This windowing strategy prioritizes paid platforms.
Swift's team announced the release via her official website, including a countdown timer. A limited-edition 7-inch blue pearlescent vinyl single is available for pre-order for 48 hours or while supplies last, priced at $10.99.
The decision to delay the YouTube release may relate to recent changes in how Billboard weights ad-supported streams, prompting platforms like YouTube to pull counts from charts.
Fan Reactions to the Release
Swifties have expressed excitement over the "Opalite" music video. One fan on X called it "my favorite music video Taylor has ever done," praising the cameos and humor.
Another described their reaction as "the most chaotic" but enjoyable, highlighting the video's fun elements.
Fans have obsessed over details like Swift's cat sweatshirt, with comments like "I NEED this in my life." The Daily Mail reported fans going "wild and crazy" for the video.
Some appreciated the retro vibe and Swift's directing, noting it "gagged the live." However, a few found it underwhelming compared to previous videos.
Overall, the release has sparked positive buzz, reinforcing Swift's connection with her audience.
Background on the Song and Album
"Opalite" is a joyful track from "The Life of a Showgirl," Swift's 12th album released in October 2025. The song debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains in the top 10 in its 17th week.
Swift explained the song's inspiration: Opalite is a manmade opal, metaphor for manmade happiness. It ties to Travis Kelce's birthstone, opal, and is believed to be a love song about him. Kelce calls it his favorite.
The album sold 2.7 million copies on its first day, surpassing records. It focuses on themes of performance and personal life.
The video's release builds on the album's success, keeping "Opalite" in the spotlight.
Why It Matters
The "Opalite" music video demonstrates Swift's influence in music and entertainment. By enlisting high-profile cameos, it bridges pop culture and celebrity networks.
The exclusive rollout on paid services highlights evolving music distribution strategies, potentially boosting subscriptions. It also reflects tensions between streaming platforms and chart methodologies.
For fans, it offers Easter eggs and joy, reinforcing Swift's status as a master storyteller.
What Happens Next
The video hits YouTube on February 8, 2026, likely increasing views and streams. Swift may announce more visuals or performances from "The Life of a Showgirl."
The vinyl single sale ends soon, creating urgency for collectors. Fan discussions and analyses will continue online, potentially influencing chart performance.
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