Brianna LaPaglia Opens Up About Taylor Swift, Breakup, and Reclaiming Her Life

AUSTIN, Texas — Brianna LaPaglia, the 25-year-old influencer and podcast host widely known as “Brianna Chickenfry,” is navigating life in the spotlight after a highly publicized breakup with country music star Zach Bryan. In a candid interview, LaPaglia revealed how Taylor Swift‘s music became a lifeline during her emotional turmoil and how she is reclaiming her identity after a tumultuous relationship.

LaPaglia, who rose to fame through her work with Barstool Sports, began dating Bryan in the summer of 2023. Their relationship, which ended in late October 2024, became the subject of intense media scrutiny after Bryan allegedly offered her $12 million and a New York apartment in exchange for her silence about their time together. LaPaglia refused the offer and instead spoke out about what she described as a controlling and emotionally abusive relationship.

“Now I’m not just listening to pop music, I’m listening to the diary of someone who experienced something completely the same as me,” LaPaglia said of Swift’s music. “Her words have been, in a weird way, an outlet of getting my own words out in my mind.”

Following the breakup, LaPaglia became an unexpected advocate for survivors of emotional abuse. She received hundreds of messages from fans sharing their own stories and seeking advice. “During the hardest time of my life, it’s probably been one of the most rewarding things that has ever happened to me, to be able to help people,” she said.

However, the newfound attention also brought backlash. Critics accused her of exploiting her situation for fame, and her every move was dissected online. Despite the negativity, LaPaglia remains focused on her mission to support others. “I’m really upset that it’s taking away from the importance of what I was doing, trying to help people heal,” she said.

LaPaglia is also reclaiming her life in other ways. She recently posed for the digital cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, a decision she described as empowering. “This cover is me being me again and taking control of my life,” she said. “This is my body; my body isn’t that experience, and even though I’m not 100% in it right now, this is me.”

Looking ahead, LaPaglia has big plans for 2025, including reviving her podcast and potentially writing a book. She hopes her story will inspire others to stay true to themselves. “If you stay true to who you are and your morals and your beliefs, you’ll always come out on top,” she said.