(What's) Better Than Revenge? · Taylor Swift [EN]

PT. II

BURBANK, CA. 24 November 2010

Charlie was nervous.

She didn't usually get nervous about interviews, having been in the business long enough to know the drill. But being on The Ellen DeGeneres Show was a big deal, especially since she was on the show to promote her first lead role in The Runaways.

As she made her way to the waiting room, she took a few deep breaths, trying to calm herself down.

Everything would be okay. Yeah, she was promoting her first big role, but she had rehearsed her answers, knew what to say. And she loved talking about the film too, loved the whole experience.

Still, there was a nagging feeling in the back of her mind.

Before she could ponder too much, the assistant informed her they were ready to get a few pre-interview shots.

The thought of the interview pushed her out of her mind for the moment, she followed the assistant to the studio.

The Ellen DeGeneres Show was everything Charlie had expected it to be: fast-paced, fun and laid-back, with the perfect blend of humour and entertainment. She felt comfortable on the show, bantering back and forth with Ellen as if they'd known each other for years.

The conversation eventually turned towards The Runaways, and Charlie talked passionately about the experience of working on the movie, the characters she found relatable, the research she had done for the role.

It was when the discussion became more informal that Charlie's nerves started to spike again.

Because she knew that the talk of The Runaways was drawing to a close, which meant that they'd soon be moving on to what was usually the final topic for guests - their personal life. She always had her answers perfected for any questions about her love life or her dating rumours, but there was one particular line of questions she was dreading.

They were just wrapping up the topic of the film when Ellen smiled at her, setting the stage for the next segment.

"And now I believe it's time for my favourite topic of discussion," Ellen said, glancing at the audience who let out a cheer.

Charlie couldn't help but brace herself internally. Here it comes.

"Now, we all love a good love life scoop," Ellen continued, her tone casual. "And of all people, your love life is always a hot topic. I mean, being the former girlfriend of Joe Jonas definitely gets people talking."

Just as expected.

"Ah, yes. The media has quite an interesting relationship with the details of my love life," she replied, injecting a bit of humour into her answer. "But Joe and I have been over for a while now. I've outgrown my Jonas Brothers phase. We can say I'm... Much Better." She finished with a smirk.

The audience erupted in laughter, and Ellen chuckled, clearly delighted by the reply.

"You've outgrown the Jonas Brothers, huh?" she teased back, enjoying the banter. "So what kind of a phase are you in now then? Who's the lucky guy?"

"Oh, no lucky anyone just yet," Charlie answered, feigning playful disappointment. "I'm currently enjoying the single life. You know, focusing on my work, traveling, and just living life. It's great. But I'm not going to lie, I'm open for any takers. Preference for non-popstars. Any volunteers?"

That earned another burst of laughter from the audience.

Ellen chuckled, playing along. "Alright, ladies and gents, you heard it here first. Open for volunteers." She jokingly looked around the audience, as if looking for someone who might take up the offer.