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Cristin Milioti Weighs in on Taylor Swift’s “Sexy Baby” Lyric: A 30 Rock Reference?
Oct
The Origins of the ‘Sexy Baby’ Lyric and 30 Rock’s Influence
When Taylor Swift released her song “Anti-Hero” in 2022, fans quickly linked her lyric “sexy baby” to 30 Rock, specifically to Cristin Milioti’s character, Abby Flynn. In the NBC sitcom’s episode “TGS Hates Women,” Abby memorably declares, “I’m a very sexy baby,” which sparked this speculation. Though Milioti’s character was a brief but iconic part of 30 Rock, her baby-voiced persona has been a lasting pop culture reference. Swift’s lyric, “Sometimes I feel like everybody is a sexy baby, and I’m a monster on the hill,” echoes Abby’s exaggerated femininity and comedic representation of sexist stereotypes in media. Fans wondered if Swift’s phrase was a direct nod to this portrayal of infantilization and how women navigate these pressures in entertainment.
Cristin Milioti’s Response to the Speculation
Appearing on The Jess Cagle Show on SiriusXM, Milioti discussed the overwhelming reaction she received when Swift’s album dropped. Her phone blew up with messages from friends and fans asking if the lyric referenced her 30 Rock role. Milioti was flattered by the speculation but remained uncertain, stating that while she would love for it to be a tribute to Abby Flynn, she had no confirmation from Swift. The coincidence of Swift’s lyric with the 30 Rock episode remains a delightful mystery. Milioti’s willingness to embrace the possibility, however, reflects her pride in her short yet significant stint on the sitcom.
The Significance of Abby Flynn’s Character in Pop Culture
Abby Flynn’s character was designed to critique the portrayal of women in media, particularly the infantilization of female figures. Milioti’s portrayal brilliantly blended satire and humor, creating a character that highlighted the absurdity of gender stereotypes. In 30 Rock, Liz Lemon (played by Tina Fey) hires Abby to combat accusations of misogyny but is immediately thrown off by her baby-like persona. Abby’s exaggerated femininity becomes a reflection of the narrow roles often available to women in entertainment. The fact that this character resonates years later, with a connection to one of Swift’s biggest songs, shows how deeply ingrained these portrayals are in cultural consciousness.
Taylor Swift’s Use of Cultural References in Her Music
Taylor Swift is known for her use of clever cultural references, often weaving them into her lyrics. Though she has not confirmed if the “sexy baby” lyric is a nod to 30 Rock, it wouldn’t be out of character. Swift frequently drops Easter eggs for fans, including references to literature, film, and television in her music. In this case, the ambiguity surrounding the lyric allows listeners to create their own interpretations. The connection to Milioti’s Abby Flynn, whether intended or not, underscores the way Swift engages with themes of societal expectations, particularly those placed on women in the public eye.
Reflecting on Milioti’s Career and Her Love for 30 Rock
Milioti’s reflection on her time on 30 Rock during the SiriusXM interview revealed just how meaningful the experience was for her. As a longtime fan of the show, landing the role of Abby Flynn was a dream come true. She fondly recalled her excitement over working on the set, wearing quirky costumes, and bringing Abby’s over-the-top persona to life. Though her role was brief, Milioti considers it one of the highlights of her career. The continued interest in her character, fueled by Swift’s potential lyrical connection, speaks to the lasting impact of her comedic performance.
From torunstyle