Taylor Swift’s brother, Austin, is more than just family to the Grammy-winning singer—he’s one of her closest friends.
Born on March 11, 1992, to Andrea and Scott Swift, Austin grew up with Taylor on their family’s Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania. At around nine years old, the family moved to Nashville to support Taylor’s burgeoning music career.
“She found singing early on, and I always knew that was her path,” Austin told Vanity Fair in 2017. “She was never going to quit; it was her life.”
While Taylor pursued music, Austin discovered his own passion in movies. He studied film at the University of Notre Dame, where he also tried his hand at acting for the first time.
“I’m usually pretty reserved, so acting didn’t seem like a natural fit,” Austin told PEOPLE in April 2018. “But once I tried it, I realized it was a chance to be creative.”
With several acting and producing credits, Austin is carving out his own space in Hollywood.
So, who is Austin Swift? Here’s a look at his journey, from acting debuts to the unwavering support he shares with his famous sister.
Who Is Taylor Swift’s Brother?
A Major Film Buff
Austin, like Taylor, felt out of place growing up. In high school, he weighed 250 pounds and had few friends, finding solace in movies instead.
“At the movies, Daniel Craig, Christian Bale, Clive Owen, and Viggo Mortensen were my friends,” he told Vanity Fair.
This love for film led him to the University of Notre Dame, where he graduated in 2015 with a degree in film studies. His favorite films include “Top Gun,” “GoldenEye,” and “The Empire Strikes Back.”
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Actor and Producer

Austin debuted in the 2016 crime thriller “I.T.,” alongside Pierce Brosnan. He later appeared with Ben Affleck and Zoe Saldana in “Live by Night.” In 2017, he expanded into TV with roles in “Embeds” and “Still the King.”
In subsequent years, Austin took on notable roles in films like “Cover Versions” and “We Summon the Darkness,” which he also co-produced. In 2019, he starred opposite Tom Felton in “Braking for Whales.”
On set, Austin bonded with co-stars, including Debby Ryan. “The best times were between scenes, working with people who cared about each other and the project,” he told PEOPLE in 2018.
He’s also produced for Taylor, including her Disney+ documentary “Folklore: The Long Pond Sessions” and the “I Bet You Think About Me (Taylor’s Version)” music video.
Shared Work Ethic
Austin drew inspiration from Taylor’s renowned work ethic during his first leading role in a college production.

“I worried I wasn’t good enough,” he told PEOPLE, recalling how he rehearsed solo late into the night. “By opening day, it was a different play, and I felt like a different person.”
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ACM Award Nominee
In 2022, Austin earned his first ACM nomination alongside Taylor and Blake Lively for the video of the year category for “I Bet You Think About Me (Taylor’s Version).”
On Instagram, he celebrated the nomination: “I was so lucky to work with Blake, Taylor, and the team. Proud and thankful for the ACM nomination!”
Dating Model Sydney Ness
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Since September 2022, Austin has been linked to model Sydney Ness, seen holding hands in New York City.
Supportive Siblings
Taylor and Austin support each other through thick and thin. Taylor has skipped major events to support Austin, and he’s been a constant presence during her tours. In 2020, Taylor posted a heartfelt photo celebrating Austin’s movie premiere, calling him “one of my best pals.”
Austin has also posted touching tributes to Taylor. In 2018, he praised her political activism, and for her 29th birthday, he shared a sweet throwback photo, expressing his admiration and gratitude for her support and inspiration.
“I’ve always had a best friend, a role model, and a champion in my corner,” he wrote. “Witnessing you become who you are today has been the greatest honor of my life.”